Vivy Sabre boat remains in Paphos harbor as Global Sumud Flotilla members are detained

The vessel Vivy Sabre, part of the international Global Sumud Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, has been anchored in Paphos, Cyprus, since just after midnight on Monday. The boat, which had sailed from Sicily via Marmaris, Turkey, diverted to Cyprus due to technical issues and the need for medical assistance for a crew member. While the wider flotilla of approximately 50 ships was intercepted by the Israeli navy in international waters off Cyprus, the Israeli government reported that over 400 activists were detained and transported to Israel. The crew of the Vivy Sabre, consisting of individuals from Italy, Spain, Morocco, and Mexico, remains in Paphos awaiting instructions. Two of the three Italian crew members have since returned home by air, while a third relocated to Limassol. Reports indicate that local political delegations have visited the boat to provide food and water, with crew member Danielle Gallina stating they were requested to remove Palestinian flags. Israeli officials characterized the flotilla as a malicious attempt to supply aid to terrorists, while organizers condemned the interception as an illegal and violent act.