The Australian government is urgently seeking confirmation of the welfare of 11 Australian citizens who were detained by Israeli forces after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza as part of a global flotilla. The incident occurred in international waters off the coast of Cyprus on Monday, according to reports.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that the government is in contact with Israeli authorities to verify the status and well-being of the detainees. 'We are urgently seeking confirmation of their welfare and consular access,' Wong said in a statement.
The flotilla, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aimed to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian supplies. Israeli forces intercepted the vessels, detaining activists from multiple countries. The Australian government has not yet confirmed the specific charges or conditions of detention.
Human rights groups have criticized the interception, calling for the release of the activists. The Australian government is working through diplomatic channels to resolve the situation.
