Daijiworld Media Network - Gaza
Gaza, Oct 8: The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) has reported that the Israeli military attacked and intercepted several vessels from its convoy attempting to reach Gaza. Among the targeted boats was The Conscience, carrying 93 journalists, doctors, and activists, followed by three smaller vessels on Wednesday. The FFC said the passengers are currently being held under “unknown conditions.”
Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the interception via X, stating, “Another futile attempt to breach the legal naval blockade and enter a combat zone ended in nothing. The vessels and the passengers are transferred to an Israeli port. All the passengers are safe and in good health. The passengers are expected to be deported promptly.”
The flotilla includes international activists, with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemning Israel’s action and calling for the release of Malaysian participants. Activists from Ireland, France, and Denmark are also reported to be on board.
The FFC, which coordinates pro-Palestinian maritime missions, stated that the convoy was carrying vital aid worth over $110,000, including medicines, respiratory equipment, and nutritional supplies for Gaza’s hospitals. “The Israeli military has no legal jurisdiction over international waters. Our flotilla poses no harm,” the coalition said on Instagram.
This incident comes just days after Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, detaining over 450 activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, most of whom have since been deported. Survivors of that mission reported physical and psychological abuse while in Israeli custody. French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan alleged being beaten, and American activist David Adler said he was stripped, zip-tied, blindfolded, and forced to be photographed with Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
The repeated interceptions highlight the ongoing tension over Gaza’s blockade and the risks faced by international aid and activist missions attempting to deliver humanitarian assistance to the region.