Libya detains Global Sumud Flotilla activists on hunger strike; Italy calls for their release

Ten members of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including two Italian volunteers, are being held in a secret detention facility in eastern Libya. The activists have been on a dry hunger strike for 96 hours, refusing food and water to protest what they describe as unlawful detention, lack of legal assistance and denial of independent medical monitoring. Their health is reported to be rapidly deteriorating, with several volunteers fainting.

Italian Consul General Filippo Colombo has appealed to Libyan authorities for a new consular visit and the swift return of the detained Italians. He emphasised Italy’s respect for Libyan sovereignty while urging a constructive dialogue to resolve the case. A court hearing for the two Italians is scheduled for 9 June. The Italian foreign ministry, embassy in Tripoli and the Benghazi consulate continue to follow the situation closely.