Israeli navy intercepts aid flotilla heading to the Gaza Strip

The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of over 50 vessels, has been intercepted by the Israeli Navy in international waters west of Crete. Organizers stated that communication with 11 ships has been lost, while Israeli media reported the interception of seven vessels. The flotilla departed from Marseille, Barcelona, and Syracuse in recent weeks with the intent to challenge the Israeli naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. Organizers claimed that Israeli military personnel threatened the crews with weapons and forced them to assemble on the decks. Conversely, the Israeli military stated that the navy broadcasted warnings, directing the activists to change course and deliver their humanitarian aid through established channels, such as the port of Ashdod. This operation occurred hundreds of nautical miles from the Israeli coast, a significantly greater distance than previous interceptions. No injuries or specific details regarding the status of the activists or their vessels have been confirmed following the initial loss of contact.