Israeli forces intercept Global Sumud Flotilla
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was seen aboard one of the vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was intercepted by the Israeli navy while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Videos shared by the Israeli foreign ministry showed Thunberg sitting on deck, next to a person in tactical gear, surrounded by soldiers.
Israeli authorities said that the flotilla boats, including Sirius, Alma, and Adara, were diverted to an Israeli port and that all passengers, including Thunberg and other activists, were safe and healthy. “Already several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port. Greta and her friends are safe and healthy,” the ministry wrote on X (formerly Twitter), sharing the video.
Humanitarian mission and flotilla details
The flotilla comprises more than 40 civilian boats carrying medicine, food, and other essential supplies intended for famine-struck Gaza. The activists’ mission is to deliver aid by sea, attempting to bypass Israel’s blockade of the region.
The Israeli navy intercepted the flotilla after issuing warnings to change course, citing active combat zones and potential violations of a lawful blockade. Despite the warnings, the flotilla continued its course, prompting intervention by Israeli forces.
Allegations of aggressive tactics
Organisers of the flotilla have described the interception as a “war crime”, alleging that the Israeli military used aggressive methods, including water cannons, to stop the vessels. They claimed that multiple boats were “illegally intercepted and boarded by Israeli Occupation Forces in international waters.”
Footage shared earlier by the flotilla on Telegram showed activists holding passports and stating that they had been abducted and taken to Israel against their will. Despite these claims, there have been no reports of injuries.
Conclusion
The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Gaza’s humanitarian situation and the complexities of aid delivery amid military blockades. While the Israeli authorities emphasise the legality of their actions, the flotilla’s organisers maintain that the mission was peaceful and aimed solely at providing critical humanitarian assistance to the war-torn region.