Detained Irish Activist’s Sister Expresses Pride and Concern

Catherine Connolly, president of Ireland’s Socialist Party, shared her feelings about her sister, Dr. Margaret Connolly, who was among those detained by Israeli forces while intercepting a convoy of 60 ships heading for Gaza.

Speaking to reporters in London after a meeting with King Charles at Buckingham Palace, Connolly expressed pride in her sister but also voiced concerns over her well-being. She mentioned that she hadn’t managed to speak with Dr. Margaret and didn’t possess any additional information apart from what had been reported in the news.

“It seems to have occurred on the high seas, making it really alarming. I’m proud of her, yes, but worried too,” Connolly conveyed in Irish. In English, she added, “I’m very upset. I’m really concerned about her and her fellow activists. I don’t yet have all the details.”

Dr. Margaret Connolly is reportedly one of six Irish citizens among 50 vessels that departed from Turkey’s Marmaris port, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. By Monday evening, Israeli military sources stated they had captured at least 39 of these ships.

The Israeli government has issued stern warnings regarding violations of its naval blockade on Gaza, urging those in the intercepted convoy to return. In a social media update, Israel’s Foreign Ministry accused the flotilla of supporting Hamas, labeling it a “provocation” that diverts attention from the group’s refusal to disarm and impedes progress on regional peace efforts.

Israel’s Foreign Minister remarked that no aid was discovered onboard, and images showed activists from the flotilla “hugging each other” after being placed onto the Israeli ship.

In a prerecorded video, Dr. Connolly and her fellow activists stated, “If you’re seeing this, it means I’ve been taken by Israeli forces from our boat and am being held illegally in an Israeli prison.”

Irish Taoiseach Michael Martin expressed his condemnation of Israel’s actions, demanding the immediate release of the activists. He described the interception as “completely unacceptable” and indicated that the Irish government would collaborate with EU member states to safeguard its citizens.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the naval commander for thwarting what he described as a harmful plan to break the blockade against Hamas in Gaza, while also suggesting the operation had not received the publicity that its organizers intended.