Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza Aid Flotilla Near Crete
Pro-Palestinian activists say Israeli forces have intercepted a Gaza aid flotilla.
A Raid in International Waters
At least 22 boats were targeted. The interception happened near the Greek island of Crete. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) organized the mission. It denounced the action as “piracy”. Activists said those on board were seized unlawfully. The location was more than 965km from Gaza. Gaza is under an Israeli naval blockade.
Israel Calls It a “PR Stunt
The Israeli foreign ministry confirmed the detentions. About 175 activists from more than 20 boats were taken. They are being transported to Israel. The ministry dismissed the flotilla as a “PR stunt”.Tracking data showed most of the remaining 36 boats were close to Crete’s south coast.
Violent Raid Overnight
The flotilla set sail two weeks ago. A total of 58 vessels joined from Spain, France, and Italy. Their goal was to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza.On Thursday, the GSF said Israeli naval forces carried out a “violent raid in international waters”. They “intercepted, boarded, and systematically disabled and destroyed various boats”. Over 180 civilians were attacked. The GSF said forces smashed an engine and jammed communications. They then retreated, leaving some participants stranded on powerless vessels.
