According to a report by The Times Of Israel on May 10, 2026, Israel’s Foreign Ministry announced that two foreign activists detained after attempting to reach Gaza by sea have been deported. The ministry said the individuals were removed from the country after completing investigations linked to a Gaza-bound flotilla intercepted by the Israeli Navy in international waters near Greece.
The activists, identified as Saif Abu Keshek, a Spanish citizen of Palestinian origin, and Brazilian national Thiago Avila, were taken to Israel for questioning following the interception of the vessel on May 1. Israeli authorities said the flotilla was attempting to challenge the naval blockade imposed on Gaza.
Israel accused the two men of having links to the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA). Washington has described the organization as being “clandestinely controlled by Hamas,” the Palestinian armed group that governs Gaza. Both Israel and the United States have imposed sanctions on the PCPA over the alleged connections.
Despite the allegations, Israeli officials did not file criminal charges against either activist during their detention. After questioning was completed, authorities proceeded with deportation measures.
In a statement posted on X, Israel’s Foreign Ministry said: “After their investigation was completed, the two professional provocateurs, Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Ávila, from the provocation flotilla, were deported today from Israel.”
The ministry also defended the country’s maritime restrictions around Gaza, stating: “Israel will not allow any breach of the lawful naval blockade on Gaza.”….Read_More…