The Israeli navy has intercepted a flotilla carrying humanitarian aid towards Gaza, activists and officials confirmed on Wednesday. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) reported that several of its vessels, including the Alma, Surius, and Adara, were boarded by Israeli military personnel after being approached at sea, around 70 nautical miles from Gaza’s shoreline.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the flotilla had been warned to change course as it was nearing an “active combat zone” and accused it of violating a naval blockade imposed on Gaza. However, it has not yet officially confirmed boarding the vessels. The GSF accused the Israeli military of damaging communications to prevent distress signals and block livestreams of the interception. Despite this, some webcams continue to show activists aboard the ships.
International concern has grown over the flotilla’s safety. France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed the interception, stressing that any boarding must occur under “the best possible security conditions.” Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said he had received assurances from his Israeli counterpart that no violence would be used against the 500 people aboard, including Italian lawmakers and Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
Israel has already blocked two similar flotilla attempts this year, in June and July. Italy and Greece have urged Tel Aviv to guarantee the safety of all activists as the situation continues to unfold.
