Hundreds of humanitarian activists are stranded in international waters after the Israeli navy intercepted and disabled several vessels of the Gaza-bound "Global Sumud Flotilla" late Wednesday.
In a statement released Thursday, the flotilla organizers alleged that Israeli forces boarded the ships, destroyed navigation arrays, and smashed engines before retreating. The operation has reportedly left multiple boats "powerless" and drifting directly in the path of a massive approaching storm.
The group reported that communications with at least 11 vessels were jammed, leaving them unable to coordinate or signal for help. "The military intentionally left civilians stranded on broken vessels," the statement said, accusing Israel of "engineered abandonment."
Israeli Army Radio confirmed the operation, stating that naval forces began taking control of the convoy far from Israel’s coast. Sources indicate that at least seven vessels were seized near the Greek island of Crete. While Israel has not commented on the specific claims of sabotage, the military has previously ordered aid ships to divert to Ashdod Port for inspection.
The Global Sumud Flotilla comprising nearly 100 boats and activists from 70 countries aims to break the 19-year blockade of the Gaza Strip to deliver medical supplies and food.
The current interception comes at a critical moment, as organizers warn that the combination of disabled engines and worsening weather conditions poses an immediate threat to the lives of those on board. Since 2007, Israel’s blockade has severely restricted the movement of goods and people in Gaza, a situation exacerbated by the recent conflict which has left an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians homeless.
