IDF Commandos Launch Operation to Seize Control of Sumud Flotilla | WATCH
The IDF is attempting to seize control of the main boats of the flotilla. Thye have been authorized to use non-lethal force should it become necessary.
The Israeli Navy has launched an interception operation against vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to breach Israel's naval blockade on Gaza.
Israeli forces, including reports of Shayetet 13 naval commandos, are actively boarding and taking control of multiple activist boats in international waters west of Cyprus. Live footage shows naval vessels and speedboats approaching the convoy, with warnings issued and initial boardings confirmed.
Current Developments:
The flotilla, consisting of over 50 vessels that departed Marmaris, Turkey on May 14, carries hundreds of activists and symbolic aid.
Israel's Foreign Ministry had pre-warned participants to turn back, labeling the mission a "provocation for the sake of provocation" serving Hamas interests rather than genuine humanitarian aid. Any real aid can be delivered via established channels through Ashdod port. The navy acts to prevent weapons or dual-use materials from reaching Hamas in Gaza.
This follows the April 30 interception of a previous leg of the flotilla near Crete, where ~21-22 vessels were stopped, ~175 activists detained (most released to Greece), and two taken to Israel for questioning. The regrouped fleet relaunched from Turkey earlier this week.