Israeli Navy Intercepts Gaza Aid Flotilla, Detains Activists Including Greta Thunberg

The Israeli navy has intercepted multiple vessels comprising the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Activists aboard the boats, including prominent Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, have been detained and are being transferred to an Israeli port.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the “safely stopped” vessels, stating the navy had instructed them to alter course due to approaching an “active combat zone” and violating a “lawful naval blockade” near Gaza. Footage released by the ministry shows Thunberg being handed water and a jacket by Israeli military personnel. The Israeli government has labeled the GSF’s mission a “provocation” but assured that “Greta and her friends are safe and healthy.”

Conversely, the GSF has vehemently condemned the interception as “illegal” and “a brazen act of desperation,” alleging that one vessel was “deliberately rammed” and others hit by water cannons. The group accused Israel of intentionally damaging ship communications to block distress signals and livestreams. At the time of the intervention, the flotilla was reportedly 70 nautical miles from Gaza’s shoreline.

The incident has sparked international condemnation. Turkey’s foreign ministry denounced it as an “act of terrorism,” while Colombian President Gustavo Petro expelled all remaining Israeli diplomats and terminated a free trade agreement, calling the interception an “international crime.” Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed concern, noting at least seven Irish citizens, including a senator, were among the detained. Protests have erupted in several countries, and Italian unions have called a general strike for Friday in solidarity with the flotilla and Gaza.

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.