A representative from an organization aiming to challenge the Israeli navy blockade of Gaza for aid delivery has confirmed the release of two Canadians detained by Israel in the Mediterranean Sea. The Global Sumud Flotilla identified the individuals as Marie Tota and Umir Tiar. Tota, a nurse from Ontario, and Tiar, a student from Quebec City, were mentioned by Safa Chebbi, the spokesperson for Global Sumud Canada.
Chebbi relayed information from the group’s organizer in Greece that both Canadians underwent medical evaluations in a hospital. These activists were part of a second Global Sumud flotilla launched recently to break the Israeli blockade by providing humanitarian assistance. Departing from Barcelona on April 12, the ships aimed to reach Gaza.
Another Canadian, Luiza Noura, was rescued by Greenpeace and the Spanish NGO Open Arms after her boat was destroyed, leaving her stranded at sea. Chebbi noted that Tota, Tiar, and Noura were among nearly 180 activists whose boats were intercepted by the Israeli navy this week in international waters far from Gaza.
Israel has reportedly released all activists except for a Spanish-Swedish citizen of Palestinian descent and a Brazilian citizen, who remain detained for questioning. Tiar, in a social media video post following her release, described the harsh conditions aboard the ship, including flooding of floors and isolation of some individuals. Tota’s statement released by Global Sumud Canada highlighted the physical and psychological mistreatment she endured for attempting to deliver aid to Gaza.
Israeli authorities have not responded immediately to the activists’ claims. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the activists were safely removed from the flotilla vessels without harm.