Activists Face Interception Attempt by Israeli Navy Amid Gaza Flotilla Initiatives

Thu Oct 23 2025 07:24:15 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Global Sumud Flotilla is met with Israeli naval opposition as they attempt to deliver aid to Gaza, raising concerns about the safety of activists on board.

The Israeli navy has directed the Global Sumud Flotilla to alter its course as reports indicate that multiple vessels have been intercepted by military personnel. Activists aboard assert that their communications have been hindered amid the blockade situation, drawing attention to the ongoing humanitarian needs in Gaza. Support from international officials is being sought to ensure the safety of the 500 individuals onboard.

The Israeli navy has told a flotilla carrying aid towards Gaza to change course, as activists say the boats have been intercepted.

The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) wrote on social media that some of its vessels had been boarded by military personnel after being approached by Israeli ships and that it was working to confirm the status of those aboard.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that the navy had warned the flotilla it was approaching an active combat zone. However, Israel has not yet confirmed boarding any vessels.

Israel has previously indicated it would prevent the flotilla from reaching its destination, having detained activists during earlier attempts to deliver aid by sea.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry further communicated that the flotilla was violating a lawful naval blockade, though it remains unclear if the vessels had entered the blockade zone.

The GSF disclosed that multiple ships, including the Alma, Surius, and Adara, had been intercepted and boarded.

Prior to the interception, they accused the Israeli military of intentionally damaging ship communications, trying to block distress signals and stop the livestream of their illegal boat boarding. Live webcams remain operational, showing activists aboard the vessels.

The GSF claims it was situated 70 nautical miles from Gaza's shoreline and anticipated arrival on Thursday morning.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed the interception of the GSF flotilla, stating that they ensured any boarding operation would follow the best security conditions.

Italy's foreign minister reassured that Israeli forces would refrain from using violence against the 500 individuals aboard, which includes political figures and climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Antonio Tajani reported that discussions were ongoing to secure non-violent actions from Israeli forces during the intended boarding.

Israel has already thwarted two previous attempts by activists to reach Gaza with aid in June and July.

Earlier, both Italy and Greece urged Israel to ensure the safety of the activists and pledged to closely monitor the unfolding situation.