An international flotilla bound for Gaza carrying humanitarian aid, including three Portuguese citizens—BE coordinator Mariana Mortágua, activist Miguel Duarte, and actress Sofia Aparício—was intercepted today by the Israeli Navy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that consular services from the Portuguese Embassy in Tel Aviv have requested the Israeli authorities to inform them “as soon as possible” about the status and location of the Portuguese involved in the flotilla.
The aim is to provide “the appropriate diplomatic and consular protection,” the statement noted.
“The Israeli authorities have assured their intent to treat the individuals with full dignity and without resorting to violence, explaining that the boarding operation will take some time due to the large number of vessels. At the earliest opportunity, we will be allowed to visit the national citizens who are part of the flotilla,” added the ministry led by Paulo Rangel.
The same source emphasized that consular services “have already managed to contact one of the Portuguese at sea,” although it did not specify which one, adding that there is total readiness to provide all necessary support.
[Updated at 21:57]
