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MEPs Call Flotilla Seizure in International Waters ‘Possible Piracy’”
(MENAFN) A group of 24 members of the European Parliament has called on the European Union’s foreign policy leadership to take urgent action following the interception of a humanitarian aid flotilla in international waters, arguing that the incident may amount to a serious breach of international maritime law.
In a letter addressed to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the lawmakers described the interception of the Global Sumud flotilla as a “flagrant violation” of the principle of freedom of navigation. They further stated that such actions could potentially be characterized as an act of piracy under international legal standards.
The lawmakers argued that the seizure of the vessels and the detention of activists aboard them represent a significant escalation rather than an isolated event. They stressed that repeated incidents of this nature raise broader concerns about compliance with international law and maritime norms.
Attention was also drawn to the detention of individuals holding European citizenship, with the lawmakers noting that at least one activist possesses dual EU nationality. They argued that this situation engages the European Union’s obligations regarding consular protection for its citizens abroad.
The group warned that continued inaction by EU institutions could weaken the bloc’s credibility in defending international law and human rights principles. They urged immediate steps to verify the condition of detained individuals and to respond diplomatically and legally to the incident.
In addition, the lawmakers called for the suspension of the EU’s association agreement with Israel, arguing that the agreement includes clauses requiring adherence to human rights and democratic standards. They claimed that continued violations should prompt formal review of the agreement’s legal basis.
Overall, the appeal reflects growing political pressure within parts of the European Parliament for a stronger EU response to maritime enforcement actions involving humanitarian missions, alongside broader debates over the bloc’s foreign policy stance and treaty obligations.
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