Title: Three Newfoundland Activists Detained by Israeli Military

ST. JOHN'S - Three activists from Newfoundland and Labrador have been detained by the Israeli military while participating in a flotilla aimed at delivering aid to the Gaza Strip, according to an advocacy group. Palestine Action YYT identified the activists as Sadie Mees, Nikita Stapleton, and Devoney Ellis. They are believed to be among numerous protesters recently apprehended by the Israeli navy.

The group describes itself as an independent community organization dedicated to the liberation of Palestine. They are calling on the Canadian federal government to demand the immediate release of the detained activists. Additionally, they are urging the government to condemn Israel's actions and to impose an arms embargo along with economic and diplomatic sanctions against Israel.

Claire Genest, a representative of Palestine Action YYT, stated that they have not been able to communicate with the Newfoundlanders since the vessel was intercepted around 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday. "There is a blackout on communications right now, and we can’t get in touch with anyone," Genest said. A livestream from the boat reportedly showed Israeli forces boarding, but the feed was cut shortly thereafter.

Global Affairs Canada has not provided immediate comments on the situation. However, the federal department confirmed that Israel would release three unnamed Canadians detained in the area. In the past, Israel has detained hundreds of individuals involved in similar flotillas, including prominent activists like Greta Thunberg. The Israeli Foreign Ministry has stated that it has offered voluntary deportation to all activists, noting that those who remain in detention are opting for a legal deportation process.