Israeli forces intercept Gaza-bound flotilla, Türkiye condemns action as ‘piracy’
Israeli naval forces have intercepted and disabled several vessels in a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters, according to organizers, leaving hundreds of civilians stranded at sea as adverse weather conditions approached.
The Global Sumud Flotilla said early Thursday that Israeli forces boarded multiple ships participating in the mission and damaged critical systems. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, the group alleged that naval units “intercepted, boarded, and systematically disabled” several boats.
The flotilla claimed that engines and navigation systems were destroyed before Israeli forces withdrew, leaving vessels unable to operate. “Hundreds of civilians [were] stranded on powerless, broken vessels directly in the path of a massive approaching storm,” the statement said. It also alleged that communications with several ships had been jammed, preventing coordination or distress signaling.
Organizers described the incident as a “violent raid” and part of what they characterized as a broader pattern of actions targeting civilians. They linked the episode to conditions in Gaza, accusing Israel of maintaining policies that restrict access to essential resources in the enclave.
Israeli media reported that naval forces had begun taking control of flotilla vessels late Wednesday. According to Army Radio, at least seven ships were seized near the Greek island of Crete, far from Israel’s coastline.
The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid and more than 400 civilians, was attempting to reach Gaza in an effort to challenge Israel’s longstanding blockade and establish a maritime humanitarian corridor.
Israel has enforced a blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007. The territory has faced severe humanitarian conditions, with widespread displacement following years of conflict.
Türkiye calls Israeli interception of Gaza aid flotilla ‘act of piracy’
Separately, Türkiye strongly condemned Israel’s actions, describing the interception as “an act of piracy.” In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said the operation violated international law and targeted humanitarian principles.
“By attacking the Global Sumud Flotilla, which sought to draw attention to the humanitarian catastrophe faced by the people of Gaza, Israel has targeted humanitarian values and international law,” the ministry said.
It added that the interception breached the principle of freedom of navigation in international waters and called for a coordinated international response. “We call on the international community to take a united stance against this lawless act,” the statement said.
The ministry also said it was taking “all necessary steps” in coordination with other countries regarding Turkish citizens and other passengers aboard the vessels.
Flotilla organizers said Israeli naval ships surrounded the convoy near Crete, cutting off communications with 11 vessels during the operation.
Source:AA
