• Source:JND
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A tense maritime confrontation unfolded this week when Israeli naval forces intercepted part of a flotilla carrying humanitarian aid and hundreds of activists bound for Gaza. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), comprising 50 boats and nearly 500 participants, had set out to challenge Israel’s blockade of the enclave. What followed was a dramatic series of events, from warnings and scrambled communications to arrests and deportations.

The flotilla set out with the mission of bringing humanitarian aid to Gaza and of raising awareness of the crisis as a humanitarian issue. On board were Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, Nelson Mandela's grandson Mandla Mandela, ex-mayor of Barcelona Ada Colau, and a number of European politicians.

As the ships approached Gaza, Israel's navy threatened to stop them, stating that the flotilla was "entering an active combat zone." The Israeli military also insisted that it would not allow unauthorised ships to cross what it termed a legal blockade.

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Interception At Sea

By early Thursday morning, flotilla ship-tracking information indicated Israeli forces closing in. Approximately 70 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza, north of Egypt in international waters, Israeli naval ships encircled a portion of the flotilla. Activists informed that the communication and livestream feed were scrambled during this time.

American veteran Greg Stoker, on board the Ohwayla, said he encountered a dozen Israeli vessels with their transponders off. In an Instagram video, he explained being directed to shut engines and threatened with repercussions if they did not comply.

Boarding And Detentions

Shortly afterwards, Israeli troops in helmets and night vision climbed aboard at least 13 vessels. Footage confirmed by Reuters indicated that passengers were in life jackets with their hands up as troops armed moved from deck to deck. Organisers accused the military of using threatening tactics, including the use of water cannon, although no one was seriously hurt.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that the seized boats were escorted to port, where passengers would be deported. It stressed that “Greta and her friends are safe and healthy.” Footage released by Israel showed Thunberg seated on a deck surrounded by soldiers.

Activists condemned the move as an illegal interception in international waters. “Multiple vessels were illegally boarded by Israeli Occupation Forces,” organisers said, vowing the mission would “continue undeterred.”

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Despite the seizure of 13 vessels, flotilla leaders announced that 30 boats were still sailing toward Gaza, only 46 nautical miles from their destination. Online, participants broadcasted chants of “Free Palestine!” before feeds were cut.

Israel defended its actions, insisting the blockade is essential to prevent weapons smuggling. Officials said humanitarian aid could be transferred through “safe channels” instead of unsanctioned flotillas.