Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza Sumud Flotilla Carrying Humanitarian Aid

Israeli naval forces launched an assault on the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian convoy sailing to break the blockade of Gaza. According to international media, the flotilla was attacked soon after entering Gaza’s territorial waters. Armed Israeli troops stormed several boats, cut off communications, and began arresting peace activists and volunteers on board.

Flotilla’s Mission for Gaza

The Global Sumud Flotilla is made up of more than 40 boats carrying over 500 people, including parliamentarians, lawyers, doctors, and humanitarian activists. The mission aimed to deliver food, medicine, and other urgent aid supplies to Gaza, where people have been suffering due to Israel’s ongoing blockade.

Among the participants is Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and Pakistani Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, who joined to show solidarity with the Palestinian people.

How Israel Responded

Al Jazeera reported that nearly 50 Israeli warships surrounded the flotilla before launching the raid. Two of the vessels have already been seized by Israeli forces. The Israeli Foreign Ministry later released a video showing its navy ordering the flotilla to divert to the port of Ashdod for “security inspection” before any aid would be sent to Gaza.

Humanitarians Stand Firm

Flotilla organizers rejected Israel’s demand. Steering committee member Thiago Avila stated:

“You are committing war crimes in Gaza. The International Court of Justice has already ruled that blocking humanitarian aid is against international law. We will not allow an occupying power to decide the fate of Palestinian aid.”

He added that it was the moral duty of the flotilla to refuse Israel’s control and to deliver the aid directly to the people of Gaza, who have the right to manage their own borders and humanitarian needs.

Global Support for Gaza

The raid has once again highlighted the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, where millions remain trapped under a strict blockade. Human rights organizations across the world have condemned Israel’s actions and called for the safe passage of humanitarian aid.

The Global Sumud Flotilla’s mission has brought international attention to the ongoing crisis, reminding the world of the urgent need to protect civilians and uphold international law.