Israel intercepted the so-called “Global Sumud Flotilla,” stopping over 40 vessels—including one carrying Greta Thunberg—enforcing its legal blockade against Hamas-controlled Gaza.
The Israeli Navy on Thursday intercepted multiple Gaza-bound boats attempting to breach Israel’s maritime security blockade. Among those detained was Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, alongside hundreds of foreign agitators sailing under the banner of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that the flotilla vessels were “safely stopped” in international waters within an active combat zone and escorted to Ashdod Port, where passengers will undergo deportation procedures. “Greta and her friends are safe and healthy,” Israel stated, adding that the so-called “aid mission” was nothing more than a political stunt coordinated with Hamas sympathizers.
🔎 What Happened
- 45 vessels with ~500 activists sailed from Spain in September, aiming to break Israel’s lawful Gaza blockade.
- The navy intercepted 40+ boats, while four broke down from technical failures.
- Israel offered to transfer aid supplies through safe channels, but flotilla leaders refused, exposing the mission as propaganda, not humanitarian relief.
- Many participants livestreamed staged claims of “abduction,” further fueling online disinformation campaigns.
🌍 Global Reactions
- Turkey accused Israel of “terror,” despite the IDF’s adherence to international law.
- Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro escalated hostilities, expelling Israeli diplomats and canceling a free trade pact.
- Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim condemned Israel after eight nationals were detained.
- Protests erupted in Italy and Colombia, but Israel emphasized that its blockade is recognized under international law as a vital measure to stop Hamas from smuggling weapons into Gaza.
🛡 Why It Matters
Israel has once again demonstrated resolve and operational precision, preventing Hamas-linked flotillas from exploiting “humanitarian cover” to weaken Israeli security. The interception reinforces the fact that Israel will never allow its borders—land or sea—to be breached by provocateurs posing as peace activists.
