The Government of Bangladesh has strongly condemned the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) by Israeli forces in international waters while it was carrying humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, Bangladesh termed the act “a flagrant violation of international law and a brazen manifestation of Israel’s use of hunger as a weapon of war.”

The government called for the “immediate and unconditional release of all detained humanitarian aid workers and activists” and urged Israel to guarantee their safety and well-being.

The statement also urged Israel “to end its illegal occupation of Gaza and the West Bank, respect international humanitarian law, and immediately cease its genocidal war and humanitarian blockade in Gaza.”

It added that the humanitarian flotilla symbolised “global solidarity with the occupied Palestinian people” and stressed that Israel must allow its unhindered access to Gaza, where civilians are being denied their fundamental rights to life, dignity, and livelihood.

The Government and people of Bangladesh stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Palestine in this hour of grave distress and continued suffering,” the statement concluded.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, also known as the Global Freedom Flotilla, is an international maritime initiative launched in mid-2025. The term “Sumud” means steadfastness or resilience in Arabic.