Israeli forces intercepted a large humanitarian aid flotilla bound for Gaza in international waters, seizing dozens of vessels and detaining hundreds of activists in an operation that has drawn sharp international criticism and raised legal concerns.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising 58 vessels carrying more than 400 activists, was halted by Israeli forces near Greece after departing earlier this month from European ports.
Organisers said 22 boats were intercepted using drones, communications jamming, and armed boarding teams, while others continued sailing toward Gaza.
The operation took place hundreds of miles from Gaza, marking a significant expansion in the distance at which such flotillas have previously been stopped.
Activists described being surrounded by military vessels and ordered at gunpoint to comply, with some reporting disrupted communications during the raid.
Israeli officials said the flotilla was stopped before reaching Israeli-controlled areas and defended the operation as necessary to enforce the naval blockade on Gaza.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that detained civilians would be transferred to Greece in coordination with its government.
Israeli authorities reported that approximately 175 individuals were taken into custody, while organisers placed the figure higher at more than 200.
The interception triggered condemnation from several governments and international organisations, many citing concerns over violations of international law.
Italy called for the immediate release of its detained nationals and urged respect for legal protections and safety guarantees.
Germany expressed “great concern” and called for restraint, while Spain summoned an Israeli diplomat in protest over the seizure.
Turkiye described the operation as “an act of piracy,” accusing Israel of violating humanitarian principles.
Amnesty International called for the unconditional release of all detained activists and demanded humane treatment in custody.
Flotilla organisers also denounced the raid, stating, “This is piracy,” and arguing that the operation represented unlawful action in international waters.
The incident follows previous interceptions of similar flotillas, reflecting an ongoing pattern of confrontations tied to efforts to deliver aid to Gaza amid continued blockade conditions.