Swedish Foreign Ministry Faces Backlash Over Handling of Detained Activists from Global Sumud Flotilla

The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (UD) has come under intense criticism following the detention of nine Swedish activists, including Greta Thunberg and MP Lorena Delgado Varas, by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla campaign. The flotilla, which aimed to break Israel's Gaza blockade and deliver humanitarian aid, was intercepted on October 1 by the Israeli navy in international waters, resulting in over 400 detentions and many being imprisoned or expelled, with reports of mistreatment.

In response to the detention, the Foreign Ministry has been inundated with over 70,000 emails from the public demanding action. Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard criticized the activists and their campaign, stating that their public efforts have obstructed the UD’s emergency phone lines, thereby risking other Swedes who require consular assistance. Malmer Stenergard emphasized that the Swedish government has actively engaged with Israeli authorities regarding the treatment of detained Swedes and has provided consular support through the embassy in Tel Aviv. However, she noted the activists’ refusal to sign deportation documents and cooperate with Israeli authorities has delayed their return.

The flotilla's participants, including prominent figures, were confronted in international waters, leading to detentions and expulsions, echoing a similar incident in June involving Thunberg. Despite the ministry's diplomatic efforts, the activists' actions and the ensuing public campaign have complicated the provision of consular services and drawn sharp criticism from Swedish officials.