Israeli Navy intercepts Gaza aid flotilla vessels off Crete coast

Israeli Military Seizes Vessels from Global Sumud Flotilla

A total of 22 vessels sailing with the Global Sumud Flotilla have been seized by Israeli military forces in international waters near Greece, according to organizers. The flotilla, which aims to deliver aid to Gaza, had over 160 activists on board when they were intercepted.

The organizers reported that 168 members of the flotilla crew were taken to the Greek island of Crete after being transferred from an Israeli army ship. Two activists remained with Israeli authorities. The group’s tracker indicates that 22 boats have been intercepted by Israel so far, while 47 others continue to sail in the Mediterranean.

The interception occurred on Wednesday, when Israeli forces used drones, communications jamming technology, and armed raiding parties to halt the humanitarian fleet in the middle of the Mediterranean as it headed to Gaza. The activists on board described the incident as an “attack on unarmed civilian boats in international waters.”

Organizers have condemned the action, stating that it is a violation of international law. Turkey has also called the interception an “act of piracy.” Other countries, including Spain, Germany, and Italy, have expressed concern over the situation.

The US Department of State has stated that it will impose consequences on those who support the flotilla, which it describes as “pro-Hamas.” However, pro-Palestinian activists argue that their advocacy for Palestinian rights is not equivalent to supporting Hamas fighters. In a previous incident last October, Israel’s military intercepted over 40 boats from the first Global Sumud Flotilla, arresting more than 450 participants, including several high-profile individuals.

The remaining 47 vessels at sea are still sailing and plan to anchor off southern Crete before continuing on to Gaza. Each ship is carrying approximately one tonne of food, medical supplies, and other equipment.

Source: Al Jazeera