ALBAWABA - Irish President Catherine Connolly expressed her pride in her sister Dr Margaret Connolly, who took part in the Global Sumud Flotilla, after being arrested by Israeli forces.
Catherine Connolly said she is "very proud" of her sister. It is worth noting that at least six Irish activists were detained by Israel on Monday, according to organisers.
"It seems like this happened in international waters, and it’s a cause of worry, really, and I’m very proud of my sister, but I’m worried about her," Connolly said in Irish language comments.
In addition, Taoiseach Micheál Martin urged Israel to immediately release those detained by the army.
He added, "Meanwhile, the Government has raised concerns for the welfare of those detained with the Israeli authorities. Such interceptions and detentions are wholly unacceptable and must stop. The Government will also discuss with EU partners how we can ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens."
The Hebrew website "Walla" reported on Tuesday that Defense Minister Yisrael Katz was informed that the Israeli Navy, led by Brigadier General Eyal Harel, had taken control of more than 40 ships and arrested more than 300 people out of about 500 in the flotilla.
The Global Sumud Flotilla said many of its vessels were intercepted by Israeli naval forces just in international waters, approximately 70 nautical miles off Cyprus.
