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.

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.

A Turkish Airlines flight carrying 137 activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, including 36 Turkish nationals, arrived at Istanbul Airport on Saturday after being detained by Israeli forces in international waters.

On Friday, Spain’s Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz called on Europe to terminate all association agreements with Israel.