Israeli naval forces intercepted a flotilla attempting to break the blockade on Gaza in international waters, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Tuesday. The operation, which took place early in the morning, involved the seizure of several vessels carrying humanitarian aid and activists.
Details of the Interception
The flotilla, organized by pro-Palestinian groups, consisted of three ships carrying medical supplies, food, and construction materials. According to the IDF, the vessels were warned multiple times to change course and head to the Israeli port of Ashdod for inspection, but they refused. Israeli commandos then boarded the ships, encountering resistance from some activists. No casualties were reported, but several activists were detained for questioning.
International Reaction
The interception drew swift condemnation from Palestinian authorities and human rights organizations. The United Nations called for restraint and an independent investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, Israel defended its actions, stating that the blockade is necessary to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza. The flotilla organizers accused Israel of violating international law and piracy.
This is not the first such interception; similar incidents occurred in 2010 and 2015, leading to widespread criticism of Israel's naval blockade. The latest operation comes amid heightened tensions following recent clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants.
The IDF released video footage showing the boarding and seizure, which it says proves the operation was conducted professionally and without excessive force. The activists detained are expected to be deported after processing.
