Protests Erupt Worldwide After Gaza Flotilla Interception by Israeli Forces

Israeli forces intercepted 13 vessels from an international flotilla carrying aid and activists to Gaza on Thursday, while organisers said around 30 boats are still heading toward the besieged enclave.

Footage from Israel’s foreign ministry showed Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg surrounded by soldiers on one of the stopped vessels. Israel stated that all passengers were safe and aid could be sent through “legal channels,” calling the mission a provocation.

The Global Sumud Flotilla — made up of more than 40 boats with about 500 participants, including parliamentarians and lawyers — set sail to challenge Israel’s blockade and deliver food and medicine. Organisers accused Israel of “war crimes,” claiming the passengers were seized in international waters.

The raid triggered protests in Italy and Colombia, where the president expelled Israeli diplomats and canceled a free trade agreement after two Colombians were detained. Turkey denounced the operation as “terrorism,” while Malaysia confirmed eight of its citizens were among those held.

The flotilla’s journey has drawn worldwide attention, with several governments preparing to assist their nationals at sea. Organisers said the remaining boats, about 46 nautical miles from Gaza, would continue “without fear.”

Israel, enforcing a naval blockade since Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, maintains the flotilla is a political move. Previous attempts to break the blockade have turned violent, including the 2010 raid that killed nine activists.

Read More: PM Demands Immediate Release of Gaza Sumud Flotilla Activists