Within the framework of an operation carried out today, the Israeli Navy intercepted the Finnish-flagged vessel and is towing it to the port of Ashdod. The Greek embassy has been informed by the Israeli Foreign Ministry that all the passengers are in good health.
There are Greek citizens among the passengers, including two Greek MPs. It should be noted that the Foreign Ministry issued an announcement on 17 October discouraging Greek citizens from participating in the operation.
The Foreign Ministry is watching the development of this case closely and has brought the matter of the presence of Greek citizens to the Israeli authorities’ attention. Specifically, Greece has asked Israel to provide for the safety of the Greek citizens and for their repatriation at the soonest possible time, and the relevant assurances have been received.
October 20, 2012