(MENAFN) Mass demonstrations erupted Wednesday in multiple Latin American capitals following the Israeli Navy's interception of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, an effort aimed at breaking Israel’s blockade and delivering critical humanitarian supplies.

Protests were reported in Mexico City, Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo, among other cities.

In Bogotá, protesters assembled outside the National Business Association of Colombia (ANDI), which represents Colombia's private sector. The Global Movement to Gaza accused ANDI on its X account of having "direct ties to Israel's economic mission in Colombia." The association swiftly refuted the claim in a formal statement.

Buenos Aires saw hundreds rallying, with local media coverage highlighting demonstrators condemning what they described as an "assault by the Israeli occupation forces" and demanding an end to the ongoing "genocide in Gaza."

“We are here today to demand the freedom of our comrades and the flotilla, and to ensure that humanitarian aid and food reach Gaza,” a protester declared.

Meanwhile, in Montevideo, activists vocally supported Palestinian freedom, holding placards calling for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s imprisonment.

The flotilla, comprising over 40 vessels and more than 500 volunteers from around 40 countries, was intercepted by Israeli forces roughly 80 nautical miles (148 kilometers) off Gaza’s coast.

Organizers stated that nine vessels were intercepted, with one reportedly rammed while still in international waters.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that "several boats" from the flotilla were "detained without incident" and that passengers were being transferred to an Israeli port. The ministry’s official X account labeled the flotilla the "Hamas Flotilla."

In Mexico City, demonstrators gathered outside the Foreign Ministry, joining global calls for the release of all detained flotilla members, including seven Mexican nationals held by Israel.

Two Mexican crew members aboard the Adara, Arlin Medrano and Sol Gonzalez, quickly reported the interception.

“If you're watching this video, it's because we were illegally intercepted in international waters by the Israeli occupation,” Medrano said in a social media video.

David Pena, legal representative for the Mexican delegation in the Global Sumud Flotilla, updated protesters on the detained crew’s situation, confirming Medrano, Gonzalez, and another crew member remain in custody.

He stated that Israel intends to charge the detainees with illegal entry into Israeli territory despite their interception occurring in international waters, adding that all detainees will be deported.

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