Activists Saif Abu Keshek (Spain) and Thiago Avila (Brazil)
Gaza-bound flotilla activists appear in 'Israeli' court, detention extended
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- Activists Saif Abu Keshek (Spain) and Thiago Avila (Brazil) appeared in an Ashkelon court on Sunday following their detention.
- 'Israeli' authorities have requested a four-day extension of their detention for further interrogation.
Activists Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila who were detained while attempting to reach the Gaza Strip via sea appeared before an 'Israeli' court on Sunday.
The activists were brought to the city of Ashkelon for interrogation following their seizure by 'Israeli' naval forces, according to Adalah, a rights group representing the individuals.
The detainees have been identified as Spanish national Saif Abu Keshek and Brazilian national Thiago Avila. Both were part of a high-profile flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to the blockaded Gaza Strip.
During the hearing, 'Israeli' authorities requested a four-day extension of their detention to continue the investigation, as confirmed by Miriam Azem, Adalah’s international advocacy coordinator.
The case has drawn international attention as the 'Israeli' military continues to enforce a strict maritime exclusion zone around the Palestinian enclave.
The court’s decision on extending the detention is expected to be released later this evening, while rights groups have called for the immediate release of the activists and the return of the seized vessel.
Read more: Sumud Flotilla reports activists’ abuse after 'Israeli' maritime interception
Backstory
The Gaza-bound flotilla was organized by international humanitarian groups seeking to break the maritime blockade and deliver essential medical and food supplies directly to the territory.
The current 'Israeli' naval blockade was significantly tightened following the outbreak of the regional war in February 2026.
'Israel' claims the blockade is necessary to prevent the smuggling of advanced weaponry to militant groups, while the United Nations and human rights organizations have repeatedly warned of a deepening humanitarian catastrophe within the Gaza Strip due to restricted access by land and sea.
