On October 1, Israel’s Foreign Ministry posted footage showing the seizure of the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza, alleging the crew were linked to Hamas and calling the operation a provocation.
Global Sumud Seizure Footage Released
Israel’s Foreign Ministry published a video, on 1 October at 10 p.m. Polish time, of a state vessel detaining a ship that was part of the Global Sumud flotilla set to travel with humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. The ministry said the passengers were being transferred to an Israeli port and that “Greta and her friends are safe and healthy.”
Israel Labels Flotilla a Provocation
Israel stated that the sole purpose of the Hamas‑Sumud flotilla was to provoke. It noted that it, along with Italy, Greece, and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, had offered a peaceful way to deliver aid to Gaza, while the flotilla had not been allowed access. The Norwegian Refugee Council reported that Israeli authorities had strictly controlled aid flow and had rejected dozens of NGO requests, claiming the NGOs were not “authorized” for such actions. Over 60 applications were rejected in July alone.
Claims of Hamas Ties to Cyber Neptune
Documents released by Israel’s Foreign Ministry alleged that Saif Abu Kashk, CEO of Cyber Neptune, was a “Hamas‑linked agent of the Palestinian Conference for Palestinians Abroad” and owner of dozens of ships sailing to Gaza. Abu Kashk denied the allegations, describing his cooperation with Cyber Neptune and the flotilla as fully transparent and focused solely on delivering life‑saving aid to Gaza’s besieged population. Global Sumud spokesperson Maria Elena Delian called Israel’s claims propaganda and demanded the documents be handed to independent authorities.
Israel Navy’s Demand for Route Change
Israel’s Ministry of Defence said the Israeli Navy requested the flotilla change course as it approached an active combat zone, alleging the move violated the legal maritime blockade. Al Jazeera criticised the blockade as inconsistent with international law. The ministry reiterated an offer to ship aid to Gaza through safe channels.
