The Minister of Foreign Affairs explained that the interception took place on Yom Kipur, the most sacred day of Judaism, and that the flotilla came out of international waters.
Paulo Rangel also says he warned the flotilla several times about the danger of leaving international waters. The Minister of Foreign Affairs says he has been in contact with Israel, adding that detainees arrive on Thursday morning to an Israeli port.
Rangel also assured that he is doing everything to gain direct access as soon as possible to the Portuguese detained by Israel who were driving aboard the humanitarian flotilla to Gaza, which may occur on Friday or Sunday.
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Rangel explained that the interception of the International Flotilha Navy of Israel to Gaza with Humanitarian aid, which followed three Portuguese, the coordinator of the Left Bloc, Mariana Mortágua, activist Miguel Duarte and actress Sofia Aparício, took place on the sacred day of Judaism, Yom Kipur.
The head of Portuguese diplomacy also pointed out that the first group of citizens detained aboard the flotilha should reach an Israeli port at 08:00 on Thursday (06:00 in Lisbon).
Paulo Rangel did not specify which Israelite port or if the Portuguese would be in this first group.
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The minister pointed out to expect the official confirmation of the Israeli authorities about the detention of the Portuguese, adding that he received the information from the left block.
About the operation of the Israelite Navy, Rangel said that the flotilla came out of international waters and that is why the Israelite forces intervened.
Consular and diplomatic protection
Paulo Rangel assured that like any Portuguese citizen, the detainees will be consular and diplomatic protection, reinforcing that they have always been accompanied by the ministry since the flotilla left.
Flotilha, made up of about 50 vessels, one of which with Portuguese flag, came from Spain to break the Israelite block and deliver groceries to the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government claimed that the initiative was supported by the Palestinian extremist group Hamas.
