Activists involved in a recent flotilla mission to Gaza, who were detained by Israel and later released, returned to Spain where confrontations broke out with police at Bilbao Airport. Videos shared online appeared to show Spanish police officers using batons against activists and demonstrators during the incident.
Supporters had gathered at the airport to welcome the activists back and protest against Israel’s actions surrounding the flotilla mission. Tensions escalated as police attempted to control crowds, with footage showing officers pushing protesters and striking some individuals with batons. Several arrests were also reported during the confrontation.
Israeli officials criticised international reactions connected to the flotilla operation and accused some European political figures of hypocrisy. The flotilla mission was organised to highlight humanitarian conditions in Gaza, an issue that continues to fuel protests and political debate across Europe.
