Clashes Erupt at Bilbao Airport During Arrival of Global Sumud Flotilla Activists

(MENAFN) Spanish police clashed with members and supporters of the Global Sumud Flotilla at Bilbao Airport, according to reports from Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE.

The incident reportedly occurred when six activists from the flotilla arrived and gathered in the arrivals area to speak with media, which authorities said disrupted passenger movement near a terminal entrance.

Police intervened after some supporters allegedly crossed a security cordon, leading to tense confrontations between officers and activists.

According to reports, four individuals were detained on charges including disobedience, resisting authority, and alleged assault on police officers. The detainees included two activists and two supporters.

Regional security authorities have reportedly launched an internal investigation to assess whether police actions followed standard operational procedures.

The activists had been expected to return earlier but delayed their travel after two members were hospitalized, reportedly following injuries sustained during detention by Israeli forces after the flotilla’s attempt to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Separately, around 20 other activists arrived at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, where they were greeted by supporters carrying Palestinian flags and banners. Spanish Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun and European Parliament member Jaume Asens were also present at the reception.

Reports indicate that the Global Sumud Flotilla said all 50 vessels in its convoy were seized earlier by Israeli authorities.

Türkiye later evacuated 422 humanitarian volunteers from 41 countries who had been part of the flotilla, including 85 Turkish nationals, according to the Turkish Foreign Ministry.

MENAFN24052026000045017281ID1111160414