Israel Intercepts Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla in the Mediterranean Sea

More than 50 vessels departed from Marmaris last week, according to organisers of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. The Global Sumud Flotilla stated that its members had begun their journey in an attempt to challenge Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip.

The flotilla’s convoy was intercepted by Israeli forces, who boarded several vessels off the coast of Cyprus. Organisers shared video footage showing activists filming as Israeli forces approached and boarded the boats. The Turkish branch of the flotilla campaign reported that one of its vessels, the Munki, had come under “attack” and “close harassment” by Israeli military boats.

The Global Sumud Filosu Turkiye stated in a statement posted on X that it had lost contact with the vessel. The Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported that activists aboard the flotilla’s vessels were detained by the Israeli military, who were then transferring them to a navy ship for transport to the Israeli port of Ashdod.

Earlier, Israel’s Foreign Ministry warned the flotilla to abandon its course, stating “Change course and turn back immediately.” The Israeli government has maintained a blockade on Gaza since 2007, citing concerns over weapons reaching Hamas and other armed groups. Humanitarian organisations have repeatedly expressed criticism of the blockade, describing it as collective punishment imposed on Gaza’s population.

The flotilla’s organisers stated that they had departed from Marmaris in what they described as the final stage of their journey. The Israeli military has not commented on the incident.

Source: Al Jazeera