Israeli Forces Detain Activists on Gaza Aid Flotilla “Sumud”

DID Press: Israeli forces have intercepted several vessels carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza in international waters near Cyprus, detaining passengers aboard the “Global Sumud Flotilla.”

The international movement behind the mission said Israeli troops boarded the ships and arrested activists participating in the convoy, which was reportedly stopped around 250 nautical miles from Gaza’s coastline.

Organizers released video footage showing Israeli forces approaching the vessels, boarding them, and taking control of the decks. The group condemned the operation as a violation of international maritime law and the “abduction of peaceful civilians,” calling for the immediate release of those detained.

In response, Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated that the country would not allow any breach of what it described as the “legal naval blockade of Gaza.”

According to organizers, more than 50 ships had departed last week from Turkey’s Marmaris port, aiming to challenge the blockade and deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

Israeli media reported that detainees were initially taken to a so-called “floating prison” before being transferred to Ashdod port for interrogation.

Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza since 2007, saying it is intended to prevent weapons smuggling to Hamas and other armed groups. Human rights organizations, however, have repeatedly described the blockade as collective punishment against Gaza’s civilian population.