Poland has summoned Israel’s chargé d’affaires in Warsaw, demanding an official apology following the detention of activists aboard the “Global Sumud Flotilla” attempting to break the blockade of Gaza Strip.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Thursday that the Israeli envoy was urgently called in to express Poland’s strong objection and to demand an apology over what he described as unacceptable treatment of detainees.
The diplomatic protest follows the publication of footage showing activists on the flotilla reportedly kneeling with their hands bound after being detained by Israeli forces.
Sikorski also called for the immediate release of Polish citizens among those detained and insisted they must be treated in accordance with international standards.
Israeli forces intercepted vessels from the flotilla earlier this week in international waters off Cyprus, according to reports. Hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists on board were later transferred to southern Israel and placed in detention.
The Polish foreign minister reiterated that the interception took place in international waters and said Warsaw is seeking urgent clarification regarding all circumstances surrounding the operation.
He had previously called for justice for Polish nationals among the detained activists, though he did not specify how many were involved.
The incident has added further diplomatic tension between European states and Israel amid ongoing disputes over aid deliveries and maritime operations linked to the Gaza conflict.
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