Indonesia welcomes back nine volunteers freed after Israel detains them
Nine Indonesian citizens who were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission to Gaza were intercepted and detained by the Israeli military in international waters. While in Israeli custody they reported physical abuse, including beatings and electric shocks. After diplomatic negotiations involving Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkey, Jordan and Egypt, the volunteers were released and arrived at Soekarno‑Hatta International Airport on 24 May 2026.
Foreign Minister Sugiono condemned the detention as a violation of international law and described the treatment as inhumane, thanking the Indonesian president, the DPR Committee I, and the governments that assisted in their release. The returning volunteers were greeted by crowds chanting “Free Palestine” and by the Palestinian ambassador to Indonesia.
The Global Peace Convoy Indonesia (GPCI) announced it is preparing legal actions against Israel, citing existing arrest warrants for Israeli officials and planning to bring the case before international courts. The incident highlights Indonesia’s diplomatic response to perceived breaches of humanitarian‑aid norms in the Gaza conflict.