Israeli naval forces have intercepted a vessel belonging to the pro-Palestinian 'Freedom Flotilla' coalition as it attempted to breach the maritime blockade of Gaza. The ship, carrying activists from various countries, was stopped in international waters before being escorted to the Israeli port of Ashdod.
Among those detained was a British citizen identified as a former United Nations official. The Israeli military stated the interception was conducted peacefully, with no injuries reported.
This marks the latest confrontation between Israel and activist groups attempting to challenge the blockade of Gaza, which Israel maintains is necessary for security reasons. The 'Freedom Flotilla' organization condemned the interception as a violation of international law.
The activists were reportedly carrying humanitarian supplies intended for Gaza's civilian population. Israeli authorities stated all cargo would undergo security checks before any permitted transfer to Gaza.
This incident echoes the deadly 2010 confrontation when Israeli commandos boarded a Gaza-bound flotilla, resulting in nine deaths. Since then, Israel has maintained a strict naval blockade while allowing monitored land crossings for humanitarian aid.
