Israeli Hospitals on High Alert as ‘Sumud’ Flotilla Heads for Gaza During Yom Kippur

Israeli hospitals in the south have been placed on high alert by the Ministry of Health in anticipation of the arrival of the pro-Palestinian “Sumud” (Steadfastness) flotilla, which is currently sailing toward the Gaza Strip. The heightened preparedness is a precautionary measure due to the potential for casualties should a confrontation occur, and is amplified by the fact that the expected arrival is during Yom Kippur, when hospitals already operate with reduced staffing.

The Ministry of Health formally notified several hospitals, including Assuta Ashdod, Barzilai, Assaf Harofeh (Shamir Medical Center), and Kaplan, to raise their readiness levels.

Assuta Ashdod Public Hospital released a statement confirming its preparation: “Following the reports on the arrival of an activist flotilla towards the Gaza Strip in the coming days, the hospital is preparing to provide a medical response to any need directed to it. Our skilled medical teams are ready at all times to provide professional and dedicated care, in accordance with the security forces’ instructions.”

Similarly, the Shamir Medical Center (Assaf Harofeh) stated: “Shamir Medical Center has been selected to be among the hospitals that will provide a medical response as required, as part of the preparation for the arrival of the ‘Sumud’ flotilla to Israel’s shores. The hospital’s skilled medical teams are prepared to provide a medical response for any scenario and any referral, in accordance with the security forces' instructions, in a professional, responsible, and dedicated manner.”

The “Sumud” flotilla, which reportedly includes over 500 social activists, among them climate activist Greta Thunberg, resumed its journey toward Gaza earlier this month. The timing of its expected arrival, during Yom Kippur, adds a layer of logistical complexity for Israel, which views the entire operation as an organized provocation.

Israeli security forces are making extensive preparations. IDF naval forces, including Shayetet 13 commandos, have conducted drills simulating the takeover of vessels at sea with an emphasis on minimizing harm to the participants. The flotilla is currently estimated to include about 50 vessels, making it the largest attempt yet to "break the naval blockade" on Gaza.

Organizers claim they have recently faced attempts to disrupt their journey. Near the coast of Greece, participants reported seeing drones and hearing nearby explosions. They also claimed that the communication systems on their ships were jammed, with the odd result of Swedish pop band ABBA’s songs being played over their communication radios. A video from the vessel Alma allegedly captured the phenomenon, with an activist saying, “They are disrupting our radio.” Organizers maintained they “will not be deterred,” despite the alleged psychological warfare, which they also claimed included five ships being attacked by several drones.

Israel has formally demanded that the organizers reroute any humanitarian aid through designated ports like Ashkelon, Cyprus, or even the Vatican. However, the organizers have refused, reinforcing Israel's view that the flotilla's goal is political confrontation. Security officials have made it clear: "We will not allow the activists to break the naval blockade on the Gaza Strip. Shayetet 13 and Navy fighters are preparing to take over the vessels should they approach the Gaza Strip."