Egyptian authorities have apprehended or questioned over 200 individuals who arrived in the country in preparation for a peaceful march to the Rafah crossing on the Gaza border, as stated by the march's spokesperson.

The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that there are Irish citizens among those who have been detained, with consular assistance being provided to them.

Activists from various countries, including Ireland, have been arriving in Cairo this week to participate in the march. The spokesperson for the march, Saif Abukeshek, mentioned that the detained individuals were from countries such as the United States, Australia, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Morocco, and Algeria.

Abukeshek reported that plainclothes police entered hotels in Cairo, questioned activists, and confiscated mobile phones and searched personal belongings. Some individuals were arrested, while others were released after interrogations. Some detainees were held at Cairo airport for hours without explanation, with others being deported.

Footage shared with AFP showed numerous people crammed into a holding room at the airport with their luggage. The Greek contingent stated that Greek nationals were among those detained at Cairo airport despite having all necessary travel documents.

Paul Murphy, a People Before Profit TD, plans to join the march and emphasized that the demonstrators have no intention of entering Gaza. He stressed the importance of allowing aid to enter Gaza and lifting the blockade imposed by Israel.

The Global March to Gaza website revealed that participants will gather in Cairo before embarking on a 48km march to the besieged Palestinian territory. The march is intended to pressure Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza and raise awareness about the situation faced by the people of Gaza.

Israel had requested Egyptian authorities to prevent the march from taking place, citing concerns about potential provocations. Egypt supports efforts to pressure Israel to lift the blockade but requires foreign delegations seeking to visit the border area to obtain official approval.

Paul Murphy highlighted that the march is a peaceful demonstration aimed at advocating for the lifting of the blockade on Gaza and holding governments accountable. He expressed concern over reports of individuals, including Irish citizens, being detained by Egyptian authorities.