Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid
Activists say a large aid convoy known as the Global Sumud Flotilla was stopped in international waters west of Cyprus while heading toward Gaza.
The group claims that more than 50 boats were involved, carrying humanitarian supplies. According to live streamed footage shared by organisers, armed naval personnel boarded multiple vessels during the operation.
Organisers described the incident as unlawful and said the interception happened roughly 250 nautical miles from Gaza, an area affected by a long standing maritime blockade.
Israel defends naval operation
The government of Israel stated that the flotilla was part of a coordinated attempt to challenge its naval restrictions around Gaza.
Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation successfully stopped what he described as a harmful effort linked to armed groups in Gaza. He also praised the naval forces involved in the interception.
Israeli authorities previously carried out a similar action last month when dozens of vessels were stopped near Crete, with activists temporarily detained and later released in most.
Detentions and international reactions
During earlier interceptions, dozens of activists were taken into custody before being released in stages following diplomatic pressure. A small number were taken to Israel for questioning and later deported.
This latest flotilla reportedly included hundreds of activists from many countries, with some vessels carrying Turkish nationals.
The government of Turkey strongly condemned the interception, calling it an unlawful act in international waters.
Officials from Hamas also criticized the operation, describing it as an escalation of tensions and a violation of international norms.
Hamas said the incident reflects ongoing conflict surrounding access to Gaza and humanitarian delivery routes.
What happened during the boarding
Live broadcasts from the flotilla showed naval personnel approaching sailboats and boarding them while passengers raised their hands. Communication from organisers said multiple vessels were intercepted within hours.
Reports from the group indicated that at least 16 boats were stopped during the initial phase of the operation.
