Israeli authorities have halted the progress of approximately 40 boats transporting aid and foreign activists, including renowned Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, towards Gaza. The flotilla organizers reported that only one vessel is still en route to the Palestinian territory. Live camera footage from the boats, confirmed by Reuters, depicted Israeli soldiers equipped with helmets and night vision gear boarding the ships as passengers in life vests raised their hands.
A video released by the Israeli Foreign Ministry showcased Thunberg, a prominent figure among the flotilla passengers, seated on a deck surrounded by soldiers. Thunberg, recognized for her environmental advocacy, had prepared a pre-recorded video that was made public following the interception of her ship. In the video, she expressed being taken against her will by Israeli forces despite their non-violent humanitarian mission in compliance with international law.
The intercepted individuals were anticipated to be transported initially to the Israeli port of Ashdod, with one ship already observed arriving at the port by a Reuters witness. The Israeli foreign ministry assured that all passengers were safe and in good health, destined to be deported to Europe from Israel. The ministry also warned that any approaching vessels attempting to breach the blockade would face prevention measures.
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), responsible for organizing the voyage, disclosed that an estimated 443 volunteers had been detained, with some transferred to a large cargo vessel before being disembarked. Separately, Canadians aboard The Conscience, a vessel part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, were prepared for witnessing the interception of the GSF, as stated by Nikita Stapleton, one of the Canadian individuals onboard.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, carrying medical personnel, journalists, and aid supplies, was situated between Athens and Crete at the time. Members on board expressed their mission’s aim to spotlight Israel’s targeting of essential workers such as doctors and journalists. International figures, including South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, condemned Israel’s actions, with Ramaphosa denouncing the interception as a violation of global solidarity efforts to alleviate Gaza’s suffering.
The flotilla, commencing its journey in late August, sought to deliver medical supplies and food to Gaza, comprising over 40 civilian vessels with approximately 500 parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists. The initiative represents a significant symbol of opposition against Israel’s blockade of Gaza, garnering widespread attention internationally.
Subsequent to the interception, protests erupted in various countries, with leaders condemning Israel’s actions. The interception, carried out in international waters, heightened tensions and drew criticism from global leaders. Hamas denounced the interception as a criminal act, urging public condemnation of Israel’s actions. Israel, defending its actions, labeled the mission as provocative rather than humanitarian.
Past attempts to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza through seaborne missions have been met with challenges, including a lethal incident in 2010 involving the death of nine activists. The recent interception has once again brought attention to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with global reactions condemning the blockade and advocating for the delivery of aid to the region.
