Israel has seized two vessels of the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla heading toward Gaza, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs says the operation was a response to alleged provocation and offers safe passage for aid.
Global Sumud Flotilla Encircled by Israeli Forces
Reuters received a message from Saif Abukeshk, spokesperson for Global Sumud Flotilla, that some vessels had been surrounded by military units and others lost internet connectivity. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the army asked the flotillas to change course because the ships were approaching an active combat zone and violating the maritime blockade. Activists reported that radio messages were being broadcast warning the vessels that delivering humanitarian aid by sea is illegal, a claim that the flotilla rejected and continued sailing.
Israel Begins Seizing Boats
Before 9 p.m., Al Jazeera reported that Israeli forces seized two vessels—Alma and Sirius—and that soldiers boarded them. Activists on board said cameras were disabled and they were working to ensure everyone aboard was safe. The Global Sumud tracker later indicated the Alma and Adara were also taken. Transmission from another ship, Yulara, stopped because of unnamed “armatekwodnych” problems.
Israel Claims Provocation
In a statement, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the sole purpose of the Hamas‑Sumud flotilla is provocation and that Israel, Italy, Greece and the Christian Patriarchate of Jerusalem have offered ways to peacefully deliver aid to Gaza. The ministry declared the flotilla is not interested in assistance but in provocation, and said the navy had asked it to change course and offered safe channels for aid.
Italian Foreign Minister: Israel Assures No Violence Against Flotilla
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said he received an assurance from Israel that no violence would be used against the flotilla and that boarding was planned. He also ordered the Tel Aviv embassy and Jerusalem consulate to assist Italians on board, who are to be taken to Ashdod and then deported. French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noel Barrot echoed the call for Israel to guarantee security, consular protection and the swift return of flotilla participants to France.
