The Israeli raid on the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying food and medicine for besieged Gaza has triggered an international outcry, with European capitals summoning Israeli envoys, mass protests erupting, and unions in Italy calling a nationwide strike.

The flotilla of more than 40 civilian boats, carrying nearly 500 activists, lawyers, parliamentarians and human rights representatives from around the world, was intercepted by the Israeli navy overnight Wednesday.

So far, at least 21 vessels have been seized, while others continue to sail toward Gaza.

Britain demands aid be handed to humanitarian groups

The UK Foreign Office expressed “deep concern” over the raid, saying London was in contact with its citizens on board.

“Humanitarian aid brought by the flotilla should be handed over to relevant organisations to ensure its delivery to Gaza,” the UK said, adding that Israel bore responsibility for the worsening humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

It urged Israel to lift restrictions “immediately and unconditionally” to allow the UN and NGOs to deliver food, medicine and other essential supplies.

Australia, Pakistan and Brazil voice strong concern

Australia confirmed its nationals were among those detained, saying consular support was being arranged. Canberra called for all parties to respect international law and ensure the “safety and humane treatment” of flotilla activists.

Pakistan strongly condemned the attack on the aid convoy and demanded the “immediate and unconditional release” of all those detained.

Brazil’s foreign ministry also denounced the raid as a violation of the basic rights of peaceful activists.

“We condemn the Israeli military action that endangered civilian lives,” it said, stressing that Israel now carries responsibility for the safety of the 15 Brazilian citizens aboard.

Italy: protests and strike action

In Italy, thousands took to the streets in Rome and Naples late Wednesday night. Protesters in Naples blocked the central railway station, while police surrounded Termini station in Rome.

Italian unions announced a general strike on Friday, denouncing the “serious aggression” against ships carrying Italian citizens.

Italy and Spain had earlier dispatched naval and rescue vessels to shadow the flotilla, but recalled them for safety reasons as the ships neared Gaza.

Spain summons Israeli envoy

Spain lodged a strong protest, summoning Israel’s chargé d’affaires to the foreign ministry. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed that 65 Spanish citizens were part of the flotilla.

Madrid’s ties with Tel Aviv remain tense after Spain officially recognized the State of Palestine last year, prompting Israel to recall its ambassador.

Turkey calls raid “terrorism”

Turkey went further, calling the Israeli action “terrorism.” The foreign ministry declared: “The attack on peaceful aid boats bound for the Palestinian people is an act of terrorism that endangered innocent civilian lives.”

The Istanbul chief prosecutor has opened an investigation into the detention of Turkish nationals.

Global backlash and rising pressure

Flotilla organisers said detainees had refused food offered by Israeli forces, while activists worldwide staged solidarity protests.

Observers noted that the flotilla, already a powerful symbol of resistance to Israel’s blockade, has now intensified Israel’s international isolation. Human rights groups and several governments demanded an independent probe into the raid, the arrests, and the denial of humanitarian aid.