Mediterranean Sea (HRNW)- Israeli naval forces have intercepted and reportedly attacked vessels of the Global Samood Flotilla, an international humanitarian aid convoy traveling toward occupied Palestine, according to foreign media reports. The flotilla had departed from Italy and was attempting to deliver aid to Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Reports say the Israeli Navy used drones, communication jamming systems, and armed personnel in an attempt to halt the mission. Organizers of the flotilla alleged that Israeli military vessels approached the boats in international waters, fired laser beams, and ordered passengers to kneel at gunpoint, calling the action a violation of international law.
Israeli media reported that at least 7 out of 58 boats were intercepted near the Greek island of Crete, while contact with several other vessels has been lost. Organizers further stated that communication with at least 11 boats has been completely cut off, raising serious concerns about the safety of more than 400 civilians on board.
Global Resistance Flotilla spokesperson Gur Tsabar condemned the operation, describing it as a direct attack on unarmed civilian vessels and urging immediate international intervention. Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon, however, defended the operation, stating that the flotilla was stopped before reaching Israeli territory and that the military acted “with determination.”
Activist Tariq Rauf said Israeli forces surrounded the convoy using military ships, drones, and electronic jamming, while also applying psychological pressure tactics. Experts note that the reported operation in international waters could trigger significant legal and diplomatic debate globally, especially given the scale of the humanitarian mission aimed at Gaza.
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