Israeli Navy Intercepts Gaza Aid Flotilla, Detaining 150 Activists

The Israeli Navy on Wednesday intercepted a nine-boat flotilla attempting to breach its maritime blockade on the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, detaining approximately 150 activists. The vessels, carrying symbolic aid, were redirected to Ashdod Port, where the activists are being processed for prompt deportation.

Organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the flotilla had set sail from Italy two weeks prior, claiming to carry over $110,000 worth of medicines, respiratory equipment, and nutritional supplies for Gaza’s hospitals. The interception occurred in the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, about 150 nautical miles off the Gaza coast in the Mediterranean Sea.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated that the “futile attempt to breach the legal naval blockade” was prevented, asserting that all passengers were safe and in good health. The Navy’s operation followed the organizers’ refusal to transfer the aid through established Israeli or international channels.

Conversely, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the interception as illegal, arguing that the Israeli military lacked jurisdiction in international waters and that their mission posed no harm. Footage published by activists showed Israeli forces boarding the vessels.

The incident has drawn international condemnation, with Turkey’s foreign ministry labeling it an “act of piracy” and a “grave violation of international law.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan further accused Israel of actions “beyond what Hitler did in terms of genocide.”

This interception follows previous similar attempts in recent months, set against the backdrop of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the Israel-Hamas conflict, which began on October 7, 2023. Israel maintains the blockade is essential to prevent Hamas from smuggling arms, while critics argue it constitutes collective punishment.

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