Israel intercepts and detains crews of Gaza aid flotillas near Crete
Summary
Israeli forces stopped and detained crews from at least 22 boats near Crete that were part of a flotilla trying to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza to bring humanitarian aid. The flotilla organizers accused Israel of a violent raid in international waters, while Israel said the activists could send aid through official ports.Key Facts
- Israeli forces intercepted ships near the Greek island of Crete carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza.
- About 22 boats with roughly 175 activists were taken under control; 36 vessels were still sailing.
- The flotilla, called Global Sumud, included about 58 boats from over 70 countries and started its journey from Italy.
- Israel’s navy told the activists to deliver aid only through the port of Ashdod in Israel.
- The flotilla said the military damaged their boats and jammed communications, stranding activists in dangerous conditions.
- Israel’s Defense Minister said the flotilla was linked with Hamas, which Israel and others consider a terrorist group.
- Turkey and Italy condemned Israel's actions, calling them illegal and demanding the release of detainees.
- The Gaza blockade has been in place since 2007 and is considered by the UN to violate human rights and humanitarian law.
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