ANKARA – Türkiye has strongly condemned Israel’s interception of a humanitarian aid ship bound for Gaza, calling it a clear violation of international law and humanitarian principles.
The vessel, reportedly carrying essential aid supplies for Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip, was intercepted by Israeli forces before it could reach its intended destination. Turkish officials described the action as unlawful and called on the international community to take urgent steps to protect humanitarian missions in conflict zones.
In a statement released by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Ankara declared the move “completely unacceptable” and stressed that obstructing humanitarian assistance constitutes a breach of the Geneva Conventions and other international norms.
“This unlawful intervention is a violation of international law and humanitarian principles. It demonstrates once again Israel’s disregard for civilian suffering in Gaza,” the statement read.
The incident has added to already heightened tensions between Türkiye and Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Turkish authorities reiterated their call for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians affected by the conflict.
Türkiye has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has led to thousands of casualties and a deepening humanitarian crisis. The Turkish government has previously launched multiple aid initiatives and has coordinated with international organizations to deliver food, medical supplies, and other essential goods to the people of Gaza.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza in recent months and has urged global leaders to act decisively to end what he describes as the “collective punishment” of Palestinians.
The Israeli government has not released a detailed statement on the specific interception, but officials have previously defended such actions as security measures aimed at preventing weapons smuggling.
Human rights groups have warned that blockading or intercepting humanitarian shipments can further exacerbate the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where food, medicine, and shelter are critically scarce.
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