Israeli naval forces have intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of over 40 civilian vessels carrying activists and symbolic humanitarian supplies bound for Gaza, detaining most onboard as the mission sought to breach Israel’s longstanding maritime blockade.
According to Israeli authorities, nearly all vessels were boarded in international waters, with passengers, including prominent activists and European lawmakers, transferred to the port of Ashdod for eventual deportation.
One vessel, the Mikeno, reportedly evaded interception and may have entered Gazan territorial waters before communication was lost.
In a video message circulated after her ship was boarded, Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg stated:
“If you are watching this video, I have been abducted and taken against my will by Israeli forces. Our humanitarian mission was non-violent and abiding by international law.”
Israel labelled the flotilla’s attempt a provocation, defending its maritime blockade as a legally justified security measure.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry warned that the remaining vessel would also be intercepted if it attempted to approach the Gaza coastline.
The flotilla’s organisers characterised the interception as an unlawful act of seizure, emphasising that their mission carried non-military aid and was intended to draw attention to Gaza’s humanitarian plight.
Global reaction was swift. The Turkish government denounced the interception as an “act of terrorism” and a breach of international norms.
Malaysia’s prime minister condemned the interception and demanded the immediate release of Malaysian participants, while several nations engaged in diplomatic outreach for their detained citizens.
Numerous protests erupted in cities across Europe and Latin America, including Rome, Berlin, Istanbul and Buenos Aires. In Italy, trade unions called for a one-day general strike in solidarity with flotilla activists.
Legal debates have reignited over the boundaries of maritime law in conflict zones. International law traditionally permits freedom of navigation in international waters, but states engaged in armed conflict may assert broader authority under certain conditions.
Critics argue the blockade amounts to collective punishment of Gaza’s civilian population, while Israel maintains it is a necessary security measure.
This incident marks one of the most ambitious civilian-led efforts in recent years to directly challenge the naval blockade of Gaza. The humanitarian situation in the enclave remains dire amid continued restrictions on aid and movement.
Sources: Reuters, AP News, Al Jazeera, The Guardian