The Israeli navy has instructed a flotilla carrying essential aid towards Gaza to alter its route. This action comes as activists involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) report that military personnel have boarded some of the participating ships. The GSF stated on social media that the boarding occurred after Israeli vessels approached their own, and they are currently working to verify the status of everyone on board.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry explained that the navy informed the flotilla it was approaching an “active combat zone” and, therefore, needed to change course. Israel has not yet officially confirmed any boarding incidents. Previously, Israel had stated its intention to prevent the flotilla from reaching its destination, and a prior attempt resulted in the detention and onshore transfer of activists.
The GSF maintains that multiple ships, including the Alma, Surius, and Adara, have been intercepted and boarded. They also accused the Israeli military of deliberately damaging the vessels’ communication systems to hinder distress signals and live streaming of the boarding operation. Webcams on several ships continue to broadcast live footage of the activists on deck.
The flotilla was reportedly 70 nautical miles from the Gaza shoreline, with hopes of reaching it on Thursday morning. The French Foreign Minister confirmed the interception and stated that France had sought assurances for the safety of the activists during any potential boarding. Italy’s foreign minister also reported receiving assurances from Israel that no violence would be used against the approximately 500 individuals on board, which includes Italian politicians and climate activist Greta Thunberg.
This incident follows two previous attempts by activists to deliver aid to Gaza by sea, which were blocked by Israel in June and July. Earlier, Italy and Greece had urged Israel to guarantee the safety of the activists, indicating they were closely monitoring the situation.