Israeli naval forces have intercepted multiple vessels belonging to the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) in international waters near Gaza. The GSF stated its intention was to deliver humanitarian aid to the region. Among those aboard the intercepted ships, which included the Alma, Surius, and Adara, was Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the vessels had been “safely stopped,” citing the enforcement of a “lawful naval blockade” in the waters adjacent to Gaza. The ministry further characterized the GSF’s attempt as a “provocation.” Individuals aboard the flotilla are being transferred to an Israeli port, with Israeli authorities confirming their safety and health. The GSF, however, labeled the interception as “illegal” and “not an act of defence,” but rather “a brazen act of desperation.”
It remains unclear whether the intercepted vessels had entered the designated blockade zone. This incident follows two previous attempts by activists in June and July to deliver aid by sea to Gaza, which were also reportedly blocked by Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously referred to such aid attempts as an “outright lie.”
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0lk292jww4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss