ATHENS, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Dozens of activists from the Global Sumud flotilla, an international humanitarian convoy bound for Gaza, disembarked on the Greek island of Crete on Friday.
The flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters on Wednesday evening.
About 175 activists from various countries were transported by Hellenic Coast Guard vessels to the town of Ierapetra, according to Greek state broadcaster ERT. They are expected to be temporarily accommodated in the city of Heraklion before arrangements can be made for their return to their home countries.
In an official statement, the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for restraint and respect for international law.
"Greece, as a stabilizing factor in the region and guided by international law and humanitarian principles, urged Israel to withdraw its vessels from the area and offered its diplomatic assistance by agreeing to host the passengers on its territory and ensure their safe return to their home countries," the statement said.
Israel said the flotilla was intercepted to enforce what it described as a lawful naval blockade on Gaza.
The Global Sumud flotilla, comprising dozens of vessels, set sail from Barcelona in April and expanded during its stop in Italy, with the aim of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenging the longstanding blockade of the territory.
A similar attempt to reach Gaza by sea took place last year, when another international flotilla was also stopped before reaching the destination.
Meanwhile, organizers of the Greek contingent that did not join the intercepted vessels said their mission would continue independently. The Greek flotilla is expected to depart from the island of Syros on Sunday. ■
