ALBAWABA- The Israeli Navy intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla on Wednesday evening, roughly 75 miles off the Gaza coast, preventing a convoy of around 40 activist-led vessels from delivering humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave.
Key ships, including the lead vessel Alma and the Sirius, were surrounded by warships, with commandos boarding several vessels, leading to arrests and redirecting the convoy toward the Israeli port of Ashdod. No injuries were immediately reported.
Flotilla organizers described the interception as an “illegal” act that disrupted live broadcasts and communications, while Israeli authorities defended the operation as enforcement of a “lawful naval blockade” in a conflict zone.
Activists, including international participants from Greece, Italy, and other countries, condemned the move as piracy and a violation of international law, vowing to continue their symbolic mission if not physically.
French and European officials called on Israel to ensure the safety of foreign participants and provide consular access, while the UN urged de-escalation.
The convoy carried medical supplies, food, and other aid for Gaza, where prolonged blockade conditions have exacerbated humanitarian crises following the post-October 2023 war and earlier disasters.
Footage from the incident showed tense standoffs, drone surveillance, and warnings from Israeli forces as some ships attempted brief evasions before eventual boarding.
European solidarity actions are already underway, including a planned general strike in Italy on October 3.
The Global Sumud Flotilla continues the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s decades-long campaign to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza, first spotlighted by the 2010 Mavi Marmara mission that ended in the deaths of nine activists and widespread international condemnation.
Each new flotilla aims to pressure governments and raise awareness of Gaza’s humanitarian situation while asserting Palestinian steadfastness and the right to aid delivery.
