Organisers of an international humanitarian flotilla have accused Israel of intercepting Gaza-bound aid ships in international waters near Greece, describing the operation as a serious violation of international law and an escalation of tensions surrounding the Gaza blockade.
The aid convoy, operated by the Global Sumud Flotilla, departed from Barcelona earlier this month carrying humanitarian supplies intended for Palestinians in Gaza. Activists involved in the mission said Israeli forces seized the vessels hundreds of miles away from Gaza while they were travelling through the Mediterranean Sea.
Flotilla organisers condemned the operation, calling it an act of “piracy” and accusing Israel of extending its military reach beyond its territorial waters. They argued that no country has the right to control or occupy international waters and said the interception reflected growing impunity in the ongoing conflict.
Türkiye strongly criticized the operation and described the interception as unlawful. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said the flotilla had been attempting to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and accused Israel of violating both international law and the principle of freedom of navigation.
Turkish officials also stated that they were coordinating with other countries regarding the safety and legal status of passengers aboard the vessels, including Turkish citizens. Ankara called on the international community to respond collectively against what it described as a lawless act.
Israel defended the operation, saying the flotilla had been stopped before reaching areas under Israeli control. Israeli officials dismissed the mission as a political stunt and praised the military for handling the situation professionally.
The incident has once again intensified debate over the blockade of Gaza and the humanitarian conditions faced by Palestinians in the territory. Aid organizations and international agencies continue to warn that supplies entering Gaza remain insufficient despite previous ceasefire agreements and promises of increased humanitarian access.
This is not the first confrontation involving the Global Sumud Flotilla. A previous mission last year was also stopped by Israeli forces, leading to arrests of activists and international participants.
