World

Israel to release, deport Gaza Strip flotilla activists

By AAP Newswire

May 10, 2026

Israel's foreign ministry accused Saif Abu Keshek of links with a terrorist organisation. -EPA

Two activists arrested last month when Israeli forces intercepted ‌a Gaza Strip-bound flotilla they were travelling on are expected to be deported in the coming days after ‌being released from security detention, their lawyers say.

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Saif Abu Keshek, a Spanish citizen, and Brazilian Thiago Avila were detained by Israeli authorities on April 29 and brought to Israel.

The activists were part of a second Global Sumud Flotilla launched from Spain on April 12 ‌to try to ‌break Israel's blockade ⁠of the Gaza Strip by delivering aid to the enclave.

Israel's foreign ministry said Abu Keshek was suspected of affiliation with a terrorist organisation and Avila was suspected of illegal activity.

Both denied the allegations.

The governments of Spain and Brazil said Abu Keshek's and Avila's detention was unlawful but Israel's Ashkelon Magistrate's Court ⁠remanded them in custody until May 10.

Human rights ‌group Adalah, which has assisted in their legal defence and also said the detention was unlawful, said that ‌Abu Keshek and Avila were informed that they will be released from detention on Saturday and handed over to immigration authorities' custody until their deportation.

"Adalah is closely monitoring developments to make sure that the release from detention goes ahead, followed by their deportation from Israel in the coming days," the group said.

Israeli authorities held them under suspicion of offences that included aiding the enemy and contact with a terrorist group.