US Congresswoman Condemns Israeli Attack on Global ‘Sumud’ Fleet as Violation of International Law
Following the Israeli forces’ raid on the global ‘Sumud’ fleet in international waters, US Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley called the action a “clear violation of international law” and expressed support for ending the Gaza blockade. According to her, at least 175 civilians, including American citizens, were detained during the incident.
Pressley wrote on the social media platform X that the Israeli military attacked a fleet carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza and illegally detained its passengers. She emphasized that this act contradicts international law and must be held accountable.
The US Congress member also announced her support for the campaign led by fellow Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, calling for an end to the Gaza blockade and the protection of civilians involved in humanitarian efforts.
Further reactions included concerns from the wife of Thiago Avila, a Brazilian citizen among the detainees, who fears Israeli interrogators may use the news of her mother’s death to pressure or torture him. The Brazilian Embassy in the occupied territories also issued a statement claiming that Avila was subjected to torture following the seizure of the Sumud fleet.
According to a statement released early Saturday by the global Sumud fleet, Palestinian activist Saif Abu Kashk and Thiago Avila, separated from 174 other activists, have been tortured. Reports indicate that both remain in detention without formal charges.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation previously described the attack on Sumud 2 as a “new crime” and a blatant violation of international humanitarian law. The fleet was en route to the Gaza Strip in international waters at the time of the attack.
Additionally, Tehmina Khatun, spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, called for the immediate and unconditional release of Saif Abu Kashk and Thiago Avila. She stressed that delivering humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza is not a crime, and reports of a hunger strike by the two activists have raised serious concerns about their health conditions.
