Global Sumud Flotilla-Aid to Gaza Intercepted by Israeli Forces
An international convoy of ships known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, attempting to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid, has been intercepted by the Israeli navy. The flotilla, consisting of over 40 vessels with nearly 500 activists onboard, was reportedly subjected to 'dangerous and intimidating' maneuvers by Israeli forces. Among the intercepted vessels was a ship carrying renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Background
The flotilla, carrying aid and activists from around the world, set sail in late August. As the fleet approached Gaza, the Israeli navy boarded some vessels and reportedly jammed communication systems across several ships. Witnesses also reported spotting unidentified ships with no lights and drones flying above the fleet. Despite the interruptions, the flotilla continued its course toward Gaza.
Key Developments
The Flotilla's live tracker showed that 15 boats had been intercepted by Israeli forces, with communication lost from several vessels. Notably, one boat, the Mikeno, reportedly escaped the blockade and entered Gaza’s territorial waters. However, the majority of the flotilla has been intercepted, leaving just a few vessels still operational.
Israeli forces defended their actions, stating the flotilla was violating what they termed a lawful blockade. They also claimed that none of the vessels had breached the blockade. However, Flotilla's organizers and the UN rights office have argued that Israel's interception of the flotilla in international waters amounted to an unlawful expansion of its blockade.
Reactions and Implications
The incident has sparked significant international concern and criticism. The UN rights office stated that Israel's interception widens its unlawful blockade of the territory. Meanwhile, the Australian government expressed deep concerns for the safety of its citizens onboard the flotilla.
In response to the incident, Italy’s Unione Sindacale di Base (USB) trade union called for a nationwide general strike, accusing Israel of violating international law. The coordinated action signals rising labor opposition in Italy to Israel’s military campaign and its blockade of Gaza.
Current Status
As of the latest reports, only one vessel, the Marinette, is still operational and heading towards Gaza. The remaining intercepted vessels have arrived at Israel’s Ashdod port, with several activists, including Greta Thunberg, detained. The Israeli foreign ministry has assured that the activists are safe and healthy.
This interception marks the latest in a long history of Israel's interceptions and attacks on Gaza-bound aid flotillas. Despite the setbacks, the Global Sumud Flotilla remains undeterred, vowing to continue their mission to challenge Israel's blockade of Gaza.