87 Flotilla Activists in Israeli Custody; Launch Hunger Strike in Solidarity with Palestinian Prisoners

At least 87 international activists from the Gaza-bound aid flotilla — intercepted by Israeli naval forces on May 18, 2026 in international waters approximately 600 nautical miles from Gaza — remained in Israeli detention on May 20 and announced a collective hunger strike. The activists, from Italy, France, the Netherlands, Canada, Turkey, Spain, Belgium, and other countries, stated they were launching the hunger strike 'in protest of their illegal abduction' and in solidarity with more than 9,500 Palestinians held in Israeli detention. Israeli activist Zohar Regev appeared before the Ashkelon Magistrate's Court on May 20; detention was extended. National Security Minister Ben-Gvir publicly taunted the detainees. The UN Human Rights Office formally stated that humanitarian aid delivery 'is not a crime' and called for the immediate release of the activists. Multiple countries began the process of summoning Israeli ambassadors. The flotilla, organized under the banner of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was carrying medical equipment, food, and other humanitarian supplies for Gaza's 2.1 million residents.