Greek pro‑Palestine activists return to Athens after detention in Israel

Nineteen Greek participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla arrived at Athens' Eleftherios Venizelos airport shortly after 21:00, where dozens of supporters greeted them with flowers, chants and applause. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement confirming the coordinated repatriation and arranged medical examinations for those requiring care.

The activists, who had been detained in Israel while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, described their imprisonment as "the most barbaric experience" of their lives, citing bruises and harsh treatment. Their return was closely monitored by diplomatic and consular officials, and a solidarity march later gathered in Athens to protest their treatment and to call for Palestinian freedom.

Similar arrivals of Italian activists were reported at Rome's airport, underscoring broader European involvement in the aid flotilla. The episode highlights ongoing tensions surrounding pro‑Palestinian activism and Israel‑Greece diplomatic interactions.