Spanish Police Detain Gaza Flotilla Activists at Airport
May 23, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Spanish Police Detain Activists at Bilbao Airport
A group of activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla and their supporters were detained by Spanish police at Bilbao Airport upon their return from Israel. The incident occurred after the activists had been released from Israeli detention.
According to eyewitnesses, the police used physical force against some of the detainees, with videos showing officers beating and dragging individuals. Four people have been taken into custody on charges related to civil disobedience.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is a humanitarian mission that aims to deliver aid to Gaza. The flotilla’s last voyage was intercepted by Israeli forces earlier this week, resulting in the detention of several activists.
Spanish authorities have confirmed that four individuals were detained at Bilbao Airport and are being held pending further investigation. The police department has released a statement saying that they are investigating the incident and will provide more information as it becomes available.
The incident highlights the complex relationships between Spain, Israel, and the Palestinian territories. Spanish authorities have traditionally maintained good relations with both countries, but this latest development may raise questions about their handling of the situation.
Source: Al Jazeera