Israeli Court Extends Detention of Gaza Flotilla Activists
An Israeli court on Tuesday extended the detention of two foreign activists intercepted from a Gaza-bound flotilla by six days, according to a lawyer representing them. The individuals, Spanish national Saif Abu Keshek and Brazilian Thiago Avila, were brought to Israel last week after being detained at sea en route to Gaza.
The pair appeared before a court in Ashkelon for their second hearing since their arrest. Israeli authorities have not disclosed the specific charges but are holding them pending further questioning, in line with standard security procedures for individuals attempting to breach maritime blockades.
The flotilla interception underscores ongoing tensions over access to the Gaza Strip, which remains under an Israeli blockade. Human rights groups have previously criticized such detentions as violations of freedom of movement, while Israel maintains the restrictions are necessary for security.
The court is expected to review the detention order again before the end of the extension period, according to legal sources familiar with the case.