Israeli forces have intercepted the pro-Palestinian Global Sumud Flotilla on its way to Gaza, detaining dozens of activists including Greta Thunberg.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is a global movement aimed at breaking Israel’s blockade of Gaza and delivering humanitarian supplies. The fleet has more than 40 vessels, carrying more than 500 people, with six Australians on board.
It is reported six vessels have been stopped illegally by Israeli naval ships, who approached the flotilla at about 7.25pm (local time) and ordered the boats to turn off their engines. The flotilla was in international waters.
“Our vessels are being illegally intercepted. Cameras are offline and vessels have been boarded by military personnel. We are actively working to confirm the safety and status of all participants on board,” organisers of the flotilla said in a post on X.
A live video from one of the boats showed passengers in life jackets sitting on the deck. In a post on X, the Israeli Foreign Ministry posted a video of Thunberg being arrested.
“This act is an outrageous breach of international and maritime law. It represents both a crime against civilians and an attack on global solidarity efforts to bring relief to Palestinians enduring Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza,” the Global Movement to Gaza said in a statement today.
It comes after the flotilla was attacked by Israeli drones last week, which dropped stun grenades and itching powder on the vessels.
“Irish foreign minister Simon Harris said he was very concerned about reports of the flotilla’s capture,” he said.
“This is a peaceful mission to shine a light on a horrific humanitarian catastrophe.
“Ireland expects international law to be upheld and all those on board the flotilla to be treated in strict accordance with it.”
In light of news of the flotilla’s capture, demonstrations have taken place in cities across Europe, including in Greece, Italy and Belgium as people express their support for Palestinians in Gaza.