Daijiworld Media Network – Gaza
Gaza, Apr 30: A flotilla of pro-Palestinian activists attempting to challenge Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza has claimed that its vessels were surrounded by Israeli military forces in international waters, organisers said on Thursday.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising more than 50 boats, alleged that Israeli naval vessels intercepted the convoy during its voyage. In a post shared on X, organisers accused Israeli forces of “illegally surrounding the flotilla in international waters and threatening kidnapping and violence.”
The group further stated that communication had been lost with at least 11 boats, raising concerns over the safety of those on board. Live tracking data indicated that the flotilla was located off the coast of Greece, near Crete, at the time of the incident.
According to the organisers, the situation escalated when military speedboats approached the convoy. They alleged that personnel identifying themselves as Israeli forces used lasers and semi-automatic weapons, ordering participants to move to the front of the boats and get on their hands and knees.
The flotilla also claimed that its communication systems were being jammed and that distress signals had been issued during the encounter.
The mission, which began in recent weeks, set sail from multiple European ports including Marseille, Barcelona and Syracuse. Organisers said the aim was to break Israel’s long-standing blockade on Gaza and express solidarity with Palestinians.
Similar attempts in the past have led to confrontations. In late 2025, another flotilla involving activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, was intercepted by the Israeli navy. Participants were detained and later deported, with human rights organisations terming the action unlawful.
The Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli naval blockade since 2007, a key flashpoint in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Both sides have also traded accusations of ceasefire violations since an agreement came into effect on October 10, 2025, following prolonged hostilities.