Israel detains sister of European president

On 19 May 2026, Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a fleet of Gaza-bound aid boats, west of Cyprus. Organizers said Israeli forces intercepted 41 vessels while 10 were still sailing, and later that all boats had been intercepted. Organizers and Al Jazeera said Israeli forces fired rubber bullets and shots at activists.

Among those detained were six Irish citizens, including the sister of the Irish president, according to local media. Four Swiss, an Austrian, Australians and six South Africans were also detained. A land convoy faced Libyan forces.