A humanitarian flotilla carrying international activists toward the Gaza coast reported being intercepted by Israeli naval vessels early Wednesday in what organizers described as an intimidation operation. The confrontation occurred approximately 140 miles from Gaza’s shoreline as tensions escalated over the mission’s attempt to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade.
According to participants aboard the lead vessel, Israeli ships approached within close proximity and disrupted communication systems during a six-minute encounter. “They attempted to intimidate us with aggressive maneuvers, but we remain committed to our peaceful mission,” stated one activist aboard the flotilla.
The development prompted diplomatic responses from European governments, with both Italy and Greece issuing formal calls for Israel to ensure the safety of those aboard the civilian vessels. The Italian government has withdrawn its naval escort from the area, while Spain maintains a patrol boat on standby outside Israel’s declared exclusion zone, prepared to assist if necessary.
A Spanish minister acknowledged the humanitarian nature of the mission while emphasizing safety concerns. “These vessels carry essential medical and food supplies to a population facing severe shortages, but we cannot risk military escalation in restricted waters,” the official stated.
The flotilla, carrying approximately 500 activists including prominent environmental and political figures, has rejected proposals to divert its cargo through alternative ports. Organizers maintain their objective extends beyond delivering aid to directly challenging what they term an “illegal naval blockade” imposed on Gaza since 2007.
Israeli authorities have characterized the mission as a provocation, with the foreign minister asserting the flotilla’s refusal to unload supplies in Cyprus demonstrates its true purpose. Military preparations are reportedly underway for potential interception operations, with naval commandos on standby.
The standoff recalls previous confrontations between activist vessels and Israeli forces, including a 2010 incident that resulted in multiple casualties. As the flotilla approaches waters where previous missions have been intercepted, international observers monitor the situation closely amid concerns about potential escalation.
