Quebec Doctor Nimâ Machouf Freed After Israeli Detention in Gaza Aid Flotilla

Quebec doctor Nimâ Machouf, one of six Canadians detained by Israeli forces after participating in a humanitarian aid flotilla to Gaza, has been released according to confirmation from her husband. The development brings relief to family members and Canadian officials who had been monitoring the situation closely since the interception occurred earlier this week.

The Detention and Release

Machouf was detained when the Israeli military intercepted the 'Conscience vessel' in international waters as part of a nine-boat flotilla attempting to breach Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. According to her husband and former Quebec politician Amir Khadir, Machouf has now been freed and is heading to a hotel in Istanbul where she will be staying with other released detainees. "She's free," Khadir confirmed to Global News via text message on Friday.

Canadian Government Response

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand had previously stated that Global Affairs Canada was tracking the route of the most recent flotilla and was urging Israel to ensure the safety and swift release of the Canadians detained. The Canadian government's involvement highlights the diplomatic efforts undertaken to secure the release of its citizens participating in humanitarian missions in conflict zones.

Context of the Flotilla Mission

The interception occurred as part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's efforts to deliver humanitarian supplies to Gaza. According to Israel's Foreign Ministry, 145 activists were participating in this latest flotilla attempt, all of whom were reported to be in good health and were being brought to shore in Israel for processing before deportation. This incident follows a similar interception last week involving nearly 450 activists from a previous flotilla, including European lawmakers and climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Family Reaction and Ongoing Concerns

While expressing relief at his wife's release, Khadir noted that concerns remain for other detainees and the broader humanitarian situation in Gaza. "We are very relieved to know that she is safe and sound," Khadir said. "But we remain concerned about the other third of those kidnapped. Above all, we are deeply concerned about the fate of the two million Palestinians amid the total devastation of Gaza."

Machouf, a Montreal-based epidemiologist, grandmother, and mother of three, has long been involved in humanitarian efforts. Her husband expressed deep pride in her commitment to bringing attention and aid to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, despite the risks involved in such missions.