Israel began on Wednesday evening to board the Gaza convoy Global Sumud Flotilla where the last boat among the approximately 45 boats was boarded on Friday. Among the over 400 activists are Greta Thunberg and several other Swedes.
According to the reports I have received, they (the Swedish activists) are well, and we have requested consular access to do what we can. But my message remains – do not go against the Ministry for Foreign Affairs' recommendations, says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (The Moderate Party).
He emphasizes that Sweden has had an absolute advisory against travel to Gaza for ten years.
One should follow such recommendations, otherwise one can get into difficulties where we cannot help.
On the question of what help the activists can now expect, Kristersson answers:
Basically none at all. Nevertheless, we are trying, of course, so we have requested consular access.
Relatives are "deeply concerned" as the activists are "captured", write 15 relatives in a debate article in Expressen. In addition, a number of demands are made on the government:
"We demand that the Swedish government immediately publicly and in strong terms condemn Israel's kidnapping of Swedish citizens. That they use diplomatic channels to ensure the safety and freedom of our relatives, and hold Israel accountable for crimes against international law. We also demand that the government support international initiatives to protect humanitarian efforts."
