A trio of individuals from Newfoundland who were detained by Israel while onboard a flotilla bound for Gaza have been released, as confirmed by a relative of one of the women involved. The Newfoundlanders, identified as Devoney Ellis, Sadie Mees, and Nikita Stapleton, were part of a larger group aboard the vessel known as the Conscience, one of nine ships aiming to reach Gaza. They were taken into custody by Israeli authorities on Wednesday.
Vicki Axford, Mees’s aunt, shared with CBC News that the trio has regained their freedom and had the opportunity to communicate with their families early Sunday morning. Axford expressed immense relief at the news, emphasizing the safety of Sadie, Nikita, and Dev on their journey back home.
According to a post from Palestine Action YYT, the three individuals have safely arrived in Jordan. Axford mentioned that the earliest estimated arrival time for the group back home is early Tuesday morning. While acknowledging the relief felt by the families, Axford highlighted that the primary mission of aiding Palestinians remains ongoing, as they are still facing occupation and restricted humanitarian access.
The ceasefire agreement between Israel’s government and Hamas, a Palestinian militant group, was ratified on Friday, paving the way for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza within 24 hours and the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza within the following 72 hours. Political figures in Newfoundland and Labrador had urged collaboration with the federal government to secure the release of the detained women.
Jim Dinn, the NDP Leader, emphasized the bipartisan nature of the issue, stating that efforts to promote peace transcend party lines. The City of St. John’s passed a motion urging Ottawa to implement a bilateral arms embargo with Israel, a measure Dinn plans to bring to the House of Assembly in the future session. He stressed the importance of global connections and collective action at all government levels to achieve lasting peace.
Consular officials and Federal Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand were acknowledged by Newfoundland MP Joanne Thompson for their role in facilitating the release of the women. Thompson expressed gratitude for their efforts and echoed the relief felt as the individuals make their way back home.
In response to CBC News inquiries, Liberal Leader John Hogan and PC Leader Tony Wakeham have been asked for comments on the situation involving the Newfoundland activists.