Israel’s UN envoy accuses Flotilla organisers of links to Hamas, criticises Spain

International, Middle East

INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has criticised the Spanish Government over calls for the release of activists detained by Israeli authorities, urging Madrid to instead investigate the identities and background of those behind the flotilla mission.

In a series of posts on X on Thursday, Danon alleged that organisers of the flotilla, identified as GSF, were linked to criminal activities and militant groups. “The truth about the organisers of the flotilla has been revealed: arrests in Tunisia for money laundering, insurance fraud, incitement to terrorism, and even sexual harassment,” he wrote.

“Those who are led by terrorists should not preach to Israel about morality or international law.”

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Danon further claimed that the individuals involved were “Hamas operatives in disguise” rather than genuine human rights activists.

“Instead of Spain demanding the release of the ‘activists,’ it should check who is really behind this flotilla,” he stated.

“When the flotilla’s leaders are Hamas terrorists, the goal is not aid, but terror and provocation.”

The Israeli envoy also criticised Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez over the decision to honour United Nations Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese.

Danon described the recognition as “shameful,” accusing Albanese of anti-Israel bias and alleging that Spain was legitimising what he termed a campaign of incitement against Israel.

“Israel’s detractors join together, but their hatred is laid bare for all to see,” he wrote.

“While many countries reject this evident campaign of incitement, Spain decides to officially legitimise it.”

Sánchez had earlier defended the recognition, stating that public responsibility carried a moral obligation “not to look the other way,” while describing Albanese as “a voice that upholds the conscience of the world.”

The latest exchange highlights growing diplomatic tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the wider international debate over humanitarian missions, human rights concerns, and accusations exchanged between Israel and its critics.