In a tense escalation of the ongoing blockade of Gaza, the Israeli navy intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid — including food and medicines — to besieged Palestinians. The flotilla, consisting of over 40 civilian vessels and nearly 500 passengers from more than 40 countries, was reportedly intercepted approximately 70 nautical miles off the Gaza coast. Organizers say Israeli forces launched cyberattacks, drone assaults, and issued threats of seizure, cutting off communication and navigation systems aboard the boats.
Passengers included human rights activists, lawyers, parliamentarians, UN representatives, and environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg. Pakistani former senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan was also among those onboard. The mission was designed as a peaceful effort to break Israel’s long-standing naval blockade on Gaza. Despite Israeli warnings and maneuvers, the organizers vowed to proceed “until Palestine is free,” stating any forced interception would be “an international crime.”
Tensions Rise Amid Drone Strikes, Cyber Attacks, and Naval Threats
Organizers reported that Israeli warships dangerously surrounded key vessels, Alma and Sirius, engaging in “intimidatory maneuvers.” Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila, speaking from the flotilla, described the sudden shutdown of all systems as a “cyber-attack.” In a previous attack, drones reportedly dropped stun grenades and itching powder onto some boats. Although there were no injuries, the aggressive tactics have alarmed international observers.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry defended the blockade, calling it a lawful measure in an “active war zone” and offered indirect aid delivery through third parties — a proposal the flotilla has rejected. Italy and Spain, while deploying naval assets for humanitarian backup, confirmed they would withdraw from the area once the flotilla approached within 150 nautical miles of Gaza.
