Activists’ detention deepens Spain-Israel tensions as aid group says men have begun hunger strike
Spain's foreign minister called for the immediate release of Saif Abukeshek, a Spanish-Swedish citizen detained by Israel after an aid flotilla bound for Gaza was intercepted. Abukeshek and another activist, Thiago Ávila, have begun a hunger strike, according to a legal aid group.
Spain's foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, has demanded the release of Saif Abukeshek, a dual Spanish-Swedish citizen detained by Israel after an aid flotilla was intercepted in international waters. Abukeshek and Thiago Ávila of Brazil were detained for questioning in Israel on Saturday. A legal aid group said both men launched a hunger strike, alleging they were beaten while in custody. The detention has strained relations between Israel and Spain, which recognized Palestinian statehood in 2024. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating Spain will protect its citizens and uphold international law. Israel's Foreign Ministry said Abukeshek and Ávila were being questioned for possible links to Hamas.
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