The Israeli navy has intercepted the flotilla on the high seas, halting its advance toward the coast of Gaza. Several ships in the convoy, including the Alma, Suri, and Theara, have been boarded by Israeli military personnel, according to reports and videos shared by flotilla activists. During the operation, activists denounced intentional damage to their communication systems to prevent live broadcasts and distress signals, although some cameras remain active, showing the conditions on board.
The flotilla consists of more than 40 vessels with around 500 people on board, including human rights activists, politicians, and the well-known climate activist Greta Thunberg. Through social media, the Global Sumud organization reports that they are working to confirm the status and safety of all participants after the interception.
The Israeli government had warned the flotilla that their approach violated a legal naval blockade imposed on Gaza and that they would not be allowed to reach land. The Italian Foreign Minister stated that Israel assured it would not use violence against convoy members.
On OSINT networks and live broadcasts, images and testimonies of the boarding are observed, with a state of high alert declared by the organizers, but activists remain calm inside the intercepted ships as they prepare their response to the situation.
In summary, the Global Sumud Flotilla has been intercepted at sea by Israel, with boardings underway and communications limited, while the international community closely monitors the unfolding events.
