In a statement released through the Turkish platform InSocial, Fidan affirmed that Ankara is working with various institutions to guarantee the safety of the detained Turkish citizens and ensure their safe return to the country.

“We plan to evacuate our activists and participants from other countries today via special flights to Türkiye,” the Foreign Minister stated.

Fidan reiaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the rights of Turkish citizens and supporting the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza.

The announcement comes after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir released videos showing the degrading treatment of activists detained after the flotilla was intercepted.

The images sparked a strong international reaction, prompting several countries, including Spain, France, Italy, Belgium, Canada, and the Netherlands, to summon Israeli diplomatic representatives to express their protest.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry reported last Tuesday that all the activists were detained and transferred to Israeli navy vessels.

According to the organizers, the flotilla consisted of approximately 50 boats carrying 428 activists from 44 countries, including 78 Turkish citizens, and aimed to break the blockade imposed on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid.

The Gaza Strip is experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis affecting some 2.4 million Palestinians, amidst the Israeli offensive that has left tens of thousands dead and wounded, mostly women and children.

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