Israeli forces stopped 13 vessels from an international flotilla carrying aid and activists to Gaza on Thursday, though organisers said 30 boats remain on course for the blockaded enclave.
Footage by Israel’s foreign ministry showed Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg surrounded by soldiers aboard one of the intercepted vessels. Israel said the passengers were safe and aid could be transferred through “lawful channels,” calling the mission provocative.
The Global Sumud Flotilla — more than 40 boats with some 500 participants, including parliamentarians and lawyers — set sail to challenge Israel’s blockade and deliver food and medicine. Organisers accused Israel of “war crimes,” saying passengers were abducted in international waters.
The interception sparked protests in Italy and Colombia, whose president expelled Israel’s diplomats and ended a free trade deal after two Colombians were detained. Turkey condemned the raid as “an act of terror,” while Malaysia said eight of its citizens were held.
The flotilla’s progress has drawn global attention, with several countries preparing to aid their nationals at sea. Organisers said their remaining boats, about 46 nautical miles from Gaza, would continue “undeterred.”
Israel, which has enforced a naval blockade since Hamas seized Gaza in 2007, insists the flotilla is a political stunt. Previous attempts to break the blockade have ended violently, including a 2010 raid that killed nine activists.
