The Sumud Global Flotilla is a civil society initiative that seeks to bring aid to Gaza by sea. It is reportedly made up of almost 60 vessels from Spain, France and Italy and was intercepted by Israeli forces off the Greek coast on April 30.
According to media reports, an Israeli court in Ashkelon on Tuesday accepted a request from authorities to extend the couple’s detention until next Sunday.
“Israel must immediately and unconditionally release” the two men, Al-Kheetan said.
The call comes amid growing international concern over restrictions on humanitarian access and aid to Gaza, where the population faces severe shortages of food, medicine and other essential supplies after months of conflict and blockade.
It is not a crime to bring help.
“It is not a crime to show solidarity and try to bring humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population of Gaza, who urgently needs it.”said Mr. Al-Kheetan.
The UN human rights office also raised the alarm over allegations of abuse in detention.
“Disturbing accounts of serious mistreatment of Mr. Abukeshek and Mr. de Ávila must be investigated and those responsible brought to justice,” said Mr. Al-Kheetan.
End arbitrary detention
The UN rights office also called on Israel to end practices it says violate international human rights standards.
“We call on Israel to end its use of arbitrary detention and broadly and vaguely defined terrorism legislation that is incompatible with international human rights law.”the statement said.
He also renewed calls for much broader humanitarian access to Gaza.
“Israel must also end its blockade on Gaza and allow and facilitate the entry of humanitarian assistance into the besieged Palestinian strip in sufficient quantities,” Al-Kheetan added.