Basque government opens inquiry into police response during Gaza Flotilla activists’ arrival

Sunday 24 May 2026 - 15:15

The Basque regional government has announced the opening of an investigation into the police response during the arrival of activists linked to the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla at Bilbao Airport in northern Spain.

The decision follows tensions that erupted when six activists landed at the airport and were welcomed by supporters and members of the media. According to regional authorities, the gathering created congestion near one of the terminal exits, prompting intervention by the Basque police force.

Basque Security Minister Bingen Zupiria acknowledged that mistakes may have occurred during the operation and stated that the government would examine whether officers acted according to official procedures. He also said the behavior of participants involved in the confrontation would be reviewed.

Speaking after the incident, Zupiria admitted that the authorities had failed to fully manage the situation and accepted political responsibility for what happened. He stressed that the objective of the police operation had been to guarantee both public safety and the right of supporters to welcome the activists peacefully.

Images shared on social media and local media outlets showed moments of physical confrontation between police officers and activists, sparking criticism from several human rights supporters. Activist Javier Aparicio described the scenes as “shocking,” especially after members of the flotilla had recently experienced detention during the mission.

Authorities confirmed that four individuals were detained on accusations including resisting law enforcement officers and public disorder. Among those arrested were members of the flotilla and supporters present at the airport.

The Global Sumud flotilla was part of an international humanitarian initiative attempting to challenge the blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007. Organizers said the convoy included dozens of vessels and hundreds of participants from different countries carrying humanitarian aid and solidarity messages for Palestinians in Gaza.

According to Turkish authorities, hundreds of volunteers from multiple nations were later evacuated safely following the interception of the flotilla. The initiative once again drew international attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza and renewed debates across Europe regarding activism, security measures, and freedom of protest.