Pro-Palestinian activists report that Israeli military forces intercepted 22 vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters near Crete, Greece. The flotilla aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza amid Israel’s naval blockade. As reported by BBC News, organizers condemned the action as piracy, stating over 180 civilians from around the world were affected during the overnight raid.
According to Xinhua, about 175 activists from various countries were transported by Hellenic Coast Guard vessels to Ierapetra on Crete. The flotilla had departed two weeks earlier from ports in Spain, France, and Italy, with over 50 boats initially joining the effort. Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the apprehension of approximately 175 activists, describing the mission as a public relations stunt.english.
What Are the Reactions?
“What happened was piracy,” stated Global Sumud Flotilla organizers, as reported by BBC News, asserting the boats were disabled and activists taken over 600 miles from Gaza. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar noted on X that arrangements were made to transfer detainees to Greece in collaboration with Greek authorities.
Greek state broadcaster ERT reported the activists’ arrival in Ierapetra, with plans for temporary accommodation in Heraklion before returns home. AFP journalists witnessed around 175 activists disembarking at Atherinolakkos port in Crete after the interception.today.
Supporting Details
The flotilla consisted of 58 vessels total, with 36 still en route near Crete’s southern coast at the time of the BBC report. Israel’s control of Gaza entry points has drawn UN and NGO accusations of restricting aid flow since the October 2023 war with Hamas began.
ABC News cited Israel’s removal of activists from more than 20 boats, while organizers claimed 211 were involved. The mission sought to challenge the blockade strangling goods into Gaza.
What Happens Next?
Activists are expected to be housed temporarily in Heraklion pending travel arrangements to home countries, per Greek state media. Israel’s Foreign Ministry indicated the transfer to Greece occurred later that day following the interception.english.
Remaining flotilla vessels were positioned off Crete, but no further advances were confirmed. Coordination between Israeli and Greek authorities facilitated the disembarkation process.
Dozens of international activists have now disembarked safely in Crete after the flotilla’s interception, with logistics underway for their repatriation as reported across multiple outlets. The aid effort to Gaza was halted in international waters near the Greek island.
