Israeli forces have intercepted a new aid flotilla comprising nine vessels and 150 individuals attempting to reach Gaza. The operation, jointly run by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and Thousand Madleens to Gaza, was stopped in international waters. Israel’s foreign ministry stated that the intervention prevented a breach of the naval blockade and entry into a combat zone. This incident follows a similar interception last week of a larger convoy, which resulted in the detention and deportation of most activists on board, including prominent climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.
Organizers reported that the nine boats were stopped early Wednesday morning, approximately 120 nautical miles off the Gaza coast, with a live tracker confirming the interception of all vessels. The Israeli government announced that all passengers were safe and would be promptly deported. Turkey’s foreign ministry condemned the action as a violation of international law and an act of piracy.
The Israeli military’s campaign in Gaza began in response to the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The conflict has led to significant loss of life and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with reports of widespread malnutrition and famine, particularly in Gaza City.
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