Condemnation statement of the World Federation of Trade Unions on the attack on Sumud Flotila Activists

04 May 2026

by WFTU

The World Federation of Trade Unions expresses its grave concern and unequivocal condemnation regarding the interception of the Sumud Flotilla convoy by Israeli military forces in international waters while it was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The Sumud Flotilla was intercepted in international waters in what can only be described as an act of piracy in violation of international law. The Israeli armed forces sabotaged and destroyed boats, leaving many activists stranded at sea with no means of reaching land. During the boarding of the vessels, activists were assaulted and attacked. Activists remain illegally detained by the Israeli authorities, including our comrade Saif Abu Keshek, a trade unionist of the Catalan union IAC and a member of the WFTU.

The World Federation of Trade Unions demands the immediate and unconditional release of all detained activists, including our comrade Saif Abu Keshek, and calls for full guarantees of their physical integrity and their safe return to their countries.

This attack constitutes yet another escalation by the state of Israel against international solidarity efforts and against the Palestinian people, who continue to suffer under occupation, blockade, and systematic violations of their fundamental rights. The targeting of a humanitarian mission aimed at delivering aid to the besieged population of the Gaza Strip once again exposes the brutality of the ongoing blockade and the attempt to silence all voices of solidarity.

The WFTU expresses its full solidarity with the activists of the Sumud Flotilla and with all those who struggle for peace, justice, and dignity. We salute the courage of the trade unionists and internationalists who, despite threats and repression, continue to stand with the Palestinian people.

No act of repression will deter the international labor movement from standing firmly on the side of justice, peace, and international solidarity.