What Happened:
Israeli naval forces have intercepted multiple vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla, a 44-ship convoy carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Among those detained are high-profile activists including Greta Thunberg, Leila Hegazy, and others from over 40 countries. The flotilla was sailing in international waters when intercepted raising serious legal and ethical concerns.
Key Details:
- Six ships—including Alma, Spectre, Adara, and Sirius—were boarded.
- Activists report aggressive tactics: water cannons, device jamming, and even ramming of the Florida vessel.
- Israel claims the flotilla attempted to breach a “lawful naval blockade.”
- Activists counter that the blockade is illegal under international law and accuse Israel of using starvation as a weapon.
Humanitarian Context:
- Gaza’s Health Ministry reports 455 deaths from starvation since October 2023, including 151 children.
- The International Court of Justice ruled in March 2024 that Israel must allow unhindered humanitarian aid into Gaza.
- The flotilla’s mission is both symbolic and practical: to deliver aid and challenge the blockade directly.
Global Reaction:
- Ireland’s Foreign Minister called the seizure “very concerning.”
- UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese and Colombian President Gustavo Petro urged safe passage.
- The flotilla’s organizers refuse to sign any Israeli documents and vow to continue their mission.
Live Updates & Footage:
Activists streamed live video until Israeli forces disabled their equipment. The footage showed peaceful scenes aboard the Alma, now replaced by silence and concern.
(Source Al Jazeera)
—Agencies
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