Israel Intercepts Freedom Flotilla: Israel has intercepted and boarded several vessels from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) that were en route to Gaza, including a boat carrying journalists, doctors, and activists. The Israeli military confirmed the raid, stating the naval blockade was legally enforced and all passengers are safe and will be deported soon.
The FFC said their convoy was carrying over $110,000 worth of essential medical and nutritional aid for Gaza’s hospitals. They emphasized that the flotilla operated in international waters and posed no threat. This follows a recent similar incident where Israel intercepted another aid convoy, detaining hundreds of activists, many of whom have reported abuse in custody.
Israel Intercepts Freedom Flotilla
Reactions to the interception include strong condemnation from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Turkey’s Foreign Ministry, which labeled Israel’s actions a violation of international law and piracy. Activists from multiple countries, including Ireland, France, and Denmark, were aboard the flotilla.
Several detained activists from the prior interception have reported physical and psychological mistreatment while in Israeli custody. Notably, French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan and American activist David Adler described harsh treatment during their detention, Israel Intercepts Freedom Flotilla.
