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Israel Detains 145 From Gaza-Bound Flotilla, Including Reporter Emily Wilder

Rights advocates demand consular access for detainees facing prompt deportation.

Overview

  • Israeli forces intercepted vessels including the flagship The Conscience on Oct. 8, transferring roughly 145 passengers to an Israeli port with deportations expected, according to the foreign ministry.
  • Jewish Currents freelancer Emily Wilder was detained while reporting on the flotilla, a detention confirmed by Rep. Jimmy Gomez, who is pressing U.S. officials for her safe treatment and release.
  • Organizers and outlets reported that at least 15 other journalists were among those detained while covering the convoy’s effort to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
  • UN special rapporteur Irene Khan urged Israel to ensure detainees’ rights, including access to lawyers and consular services, as some previously released flotilla participants alleged mistreatment; Israeli authorities say passengers are safe and the blockade is legal.
  • The interceptions follow last week’s Global Sumud flotilla detentions and deportations, a pattern that has intensified debate over press access to Gaza and the legality of enforcing the naval blockade.