Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza Aid Flotilla; 11 Irish Citizens Detained Including President's Sister (irishtimes.com)

• Israeli forces intercepted 30 of 54 boats from the Global Sumud Flotilla near Gaza.
• 11 Irish citizens detained, including Dr. Margaret Connolly (President's sister) and activist Helena Kearns.
• Detainees announced plans for a hunger strike; videos recorded in advance.
• Irish President expressed worry; Department of Foreign Affairs monitoring.
• Sinn Féin and People Before Profit criticized government response and called for sanctions.
• Activists urged enactment of the Occupied Territories Bill banning imports from occupied territories.

"Israeli naval forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying aid to Gaza, detaining 11 Irish citizens, including President Catherine Connolly's sister Dr. Margaret Connolly. The flotilla of 54 boats was intercepted in international waters. Detainees planned a hunger strike. Irish political leaders criticized the government's response and called for action, including the Occupied Territories Bill."