The Israeli navy intercepted a flotilla carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza and detained climate activist Greta Thunberg among dozens of participants, as part of a bid to enforce its naval blockade.
The operation targeted the Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising over 40 vessels and nearly 500 activists including lawmakers and rights advocates. Organisers say at least 19 boats were barred from proceeding about 70 nautical miles from Gaza.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry defended the action, stating that the convoy attempted to breach its naval blockade and that those onboard were being transferred to port.
“Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin. The passengers are safe and in good health,” Israel’s foreign ministry tweeted.
“The sole purpose of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla is provocation. Israel, Italy, Greece, and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem have all offered and continue to offer the flotilla a way to peacefully deliver any aid they might have to Gaza. The flotilla refused because they are not interested in aid, but in provocation,” the ministry added.
Activists condemned the interception as a violation of international law. One spokesperson said Israeli forces deployed “skunk water at extremely high pressures” and undertook “intimidation tactics” during boarding actions.
The incident escalates tensions over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Thunberg’s involvement has drawn global attention, intensifying the spotlight on Israel’s blockade and its treatment of civilian aid missions.
