Israel Intercepts Final Gaza Flotilla Vessel, Deports Activists Amid New Convoy’s Approach

The Israeli Navy on Friday successfully intercepted the last remaining vessel of the 42-ship Global Sumud Flotilla, concluding its mission to breach the maritime blockade on Gaza. The operation, which took place yesterday, October 3, 2025, resulted in the detention of 470 activists. The Foreign Ministry confirmed that deportation procedures are rapidly progressing, with four Italian citizens already deported and others, including Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg, in the process.

As the Sumud Flotilla’s efforts concluded, a new challenge emerged: a fresh convoy of nine vessels, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, is now en route to Gaza. The lead vessel, the ‘Conscience,’ departed Italy with approximately 100 activists, including healthcare workers and journalists, and has joined eight other ships currently off the coast of Crete. These vessels are anticipated to be intercepted by the Israeli Navy if they continue towards the Strip.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir sparked controversy by visiting the Ashdod port to confront the detained activists. He later criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for opting for deportation over extended imprisonment, arguing that it encourages repeat attempts. Foreign Ministry officials reportedly expressed frustration with Ben Gvir’s actions, suggesting they complicated an otherwise smooth interception process.

The interception of the Sumud Flotilla’s final vessel, the ‘Marinette,’ which experienced mechanical issues, occurred after organizers rejected calls to transfer their symbolic humanitarian aid through official channels. Israel maintains its blockade, imposed with Egypt since Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007, is necessary to prevent arms smuggling. Critics, however, view it as collective punishment amidst a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by nearly two years of conflict since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, invasion.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.