Israeli forces have detained more than 170 activists, including 20 Turkish nationals, after intercepting a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters near the Greek island of Crete, according to members of the Turkish delegation.

Israeli forces have intercepted several vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla in the Mediterranean Sea, halting a large-scale humanitarian effort aimed at delivering aid to the besieged Gaza Strip.

The Global Sumud aid flotilla plans to set sail again for war-torn Gaza from Barcelona on March 29, with significantly broader international participation, organizers announced on Thursday.

Following his release from Israeli detention, Shahidul Alam, the renowned Bangladeshi photographer, human rights activist, and outspoken critic of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, has arrived in Istanbul.

An Italian charity has accused Israel of blocking 250 tons of humanitarian aid intended for Gaza, citing disputes over the shipment’s contents and registration procedures.

Israel intercepted nine aid vessels carrying around 150 activists from approximately 30 countries, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition informed.

More than 80 parliamentarians from across Europe condemned Israel’s attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla on Tuesday and called for the immediate release of all volunteers still being held in detention.