Chilean Delegate’s Lawyer Criticizes Foreign Ministry’s Stance on Global Sumud Flotilla Incident: «International Crimes Were Committed»

Original article: Abogado de delegación chilena en la Flotilla Global Sumud cuestionó postura de la Cancillería: «No condena hechos que constituyen delitos internacionales» Chilean Delegate’s Lawyer Criticizes Foreign Ministry’s Stance on Global Sumud Flotilla Incident: «International Crimes Were Committed» Following the interception of the vessels involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli military forces—an action conducted in international waters off the coast of Greece—attorney Nelson Hadad, legal representative of the Chilean delegation participating in the humanitarian mission, expressed concern over the statement issued by the national Foreign Ministry. He argued that the communiqué fails to condemn actions that constitute «international crimes. » In response to the incident, the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed, on behalf of the government, «its concern regarding the recent events linked to the Global Sumud Flotilla, in which at least seven Chilean citizens are reported to be involved.

» According to the statement released by the Foreign Ministry, «The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is taking relevant steps with all parties involved and has instructed immediate consular follow-up to monitor and safeguard the situation of our citizens, ensuring the protection of their rights and integrity. » In light of this, attorney Hadad remarked, «We believe that this communiqué does not firmly sanction these actions that constitute international crimes and also violate international law as a whole. » He further emphasized, «It is not enough to express concern: crimes have been committed, illegal activities that are outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 1982.

Acts such as piracy, kidnapping, illegal detention, and others may apply if there was any physical violence during the forced transfer of Chileans to Israeli naval vessels and boats,» argued the lawyer. Moreover, he highlighted that «other countries have spoken out: Colombia, Italy, and they agree that these are illegal acts deserving of punishment and that strong condemnation is warranted. » Regarding the situation of Chileans traveling on the Flotilla, Hadad mentioned that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed them that an agreement has been reached for them to travel to Greece, «but we do not know their condition or whether they have been victims of violence.

We do not know,» he added, expressing gratitude to the Foreign Ministry for any efforts made from the Consulate to facilitate their return to Chile as soon as possible. News in Development.