The Israeli military has intercepted several vessels belonging to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition that were sailing toward Gaza with humanitarian aid. The ships, carrying doctors, journalists, and peace activists, were reportedly stopped in international waters before being escorted to an Israeli port.
According to reports from those onboard, the interception happened suddenly as naval forces surrounded the flotilla and ordered them to change course. Activists said the vessels carried essential medical and nutritional supplies meant for Gaza’s civilians, who continue to face severe shortages due to the ongoing blockade.
The Israeli authorities stated that the flotilla attempted to breach what they described as a lawful naval blockade, emphasizing that any unauthorized entry into the restricted maritime zone violates national security protocols. The passengers were detained and are expected to be deported after questioning.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has condemned the interception, calling it an unlawful act against a peaceful humanitarian mission. Members insisted that their only goal was to deliver urgent relief to Gaza and draw attention to the humanitarian crisis. They also called on international bodies to pressure Israel to end what they described as a systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and revived global debates over maritime law, human rights, and the legality of the blockade. Several governments whose citizens participated in the mission have expressed concern over the treatment of their nationals and demanded their safe release.
This latest interception follows previous confrontations involving similar aid flotillas, where hundreds of activists were detained under similar circumstances. Human rights organizations continue to argue that such blockades violate international humanitarian principles by restricting access to basic necessities for civilians in conflict zones.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has vowed to continue its efforts, stating that humanitarian access cannot be negotiated under siege conditions. The group maintains that its missions will persist until unrestricted aid reaches Gaza and international accountability is enforced.