Egypt Detains Over 200 Pro-Palestinian Activists Before Gaza March

Egyptian security forces have detained over 200 international activists in Cairo, disrupting the commencement of the Global March to Gaza, an initiative aimed at challenging Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory. Participants from more than 40 countries had convened in Egypt with plans to travel to the Rafah border crossing to deliver humanitarian aid and express solidarity with Gaza’s residents.

According to organizers, numerous activists were intercepted at Cairo International Airport or approached by plainclothes officers at their hotels. Detained individuals reported being questioned, having their personal belongings searched, and, in some cases, having their mobile phones confiscated. Some were held for extended periods without explanation, while others faced deportation. Among those affected were nationals from the United States, Australia, France, Spain, Morocco, Algeria, and the Netherlands. In one instance, twenty French participants were reportedly detained at the airport for 18 hours.

Footage shared with media outlets depicted crowded holding areas at the airport, with activists expressing frustration over their treatment and lack of information. The Greek delegation stated that dozens of its citizens were detained despite possessing valid travel documents and adhering to all legal entry procedures. Egyptian authorities have not publicly commented on the detentions.

March Objectives and Planned Route

The Global March to Gaza was organized as a non-violent demonstration to draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel’s blockade. Participants intended to travel by bus from Cairo to the city of Al-Arish in the Sinai Peninsula, followed by a 50-kilometer march to the Rafah border crossing. The plan included camping near the border before returning to Cairo on June 19.

A separate convoy, known as Soumoud (Arabic for “steadfastness”), departed from Tunisia on June 9, aiming to reach Gaza via Libya and Egypt. This convoy, comprising approximately 1,000 participants and 300 vehicles, seeks to deliver humanitarian aid and raise awareness about the conditions in Gaza.

International and Regional Responses

Israel has urged Egypt to prevent the arrival of what it terms “jihadist protesters” at the Egypt-Israel border, citing concerns over the safety of its soldiers. In response, Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that while it supports efforts to pressure Israel, any foreign delegations intending to visit the border area must obtain prior approval through official channels.

Despite the detentions and deportations, organizers of the Global March to Gaza have expressed determination to proceed with their plans, citing the substantial number of participants already present in Egypt and en route to the region.