Muscat – Arab countries and rights groups said on Friday that they were closely monitoring the situation of their citizens aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which attempted to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza, and expressed concern for their safety before returning home.

In a statement, Oman’s Foreign Ministry said it is ‘working diligently, through its partners and diplomatic relations, to guarantee the security of its citizens and their safe return’, while also urging that ‘all flotilla participants be protected and not exposed to any risks’. The ministry reiterated Oman’s call to the international community to assume its responsibilities, pressure Israeli forces to halt violations, and ensure the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Initial reports suggested there were three Omanis on board. One participant, Omama Mustafa al Lawati, appeared in a short video posted on X stating that she had been detained by Israeli forces. “If this video reaches you, it means that I was kidnapped by the Israeli occupation forces while trying to carry out a humanitarian mission in line with international law,” she said, appealing to the Omani government to intervene urgently for her release.

Oman Human Rights Commission voiced deep concern over the Israeli attack on the flotilla in international waters and the arrest of its participants. It said it is following the action of competent authorities in the sultanate to safeguard Omani citizens and confirmed coordination with the Arab network of national human rights institutions. The commission added that it will continue to engage relevant UN mechanisms, including the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, to press for the release of all detainees.

Other Arab governments also issued statements. The Jordanian Foreign Ministry said it is monitoring the situation of Jordanians aboard and holds Israel accountable for their safety. The Lebanese Foreign Ministry confirmed that two Lebanese citizens were detained and contact was being established to determine their fate. The Kuwaiti National Diwan for Human Rights called for the release of three Kuwaiti participants and described Israel’s actions against the flotilla as a violation of international law and humanitarian principles.

Israeli naval forces on Thursday seized 42 boats sailing to Gaza and detained 470 activists on board. Similar flotillas have previously been intercepted, with ships seized, cargo confiscated and activists deported.

Agencies