Israeli forces intercepted dozens of boats bound for Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, detaining passengers including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
The convoy, which set sail from Barcelona and other Mediterranean ports, sought to break Israel’s blockade and deliver food, water, and medicine to Palestinians.
The Global Sumud Flotilla reports that over 443 volunteers from 47 countries were unlawfully seized in international waters after Israel intercepted the fleet.
— Global Sumud Flotilla Commentary (@GlobalSumudF) October 2, 2025
Activists were hit with water cannons, doused with sewage, and had their communications disrupted. pic.twitter.com/14V7DWx9Xz
Israel said the flotilla was a “provocation” and emphasized that aid could have been routed through Ashkelon. Flotilla organizers called the interception “an illegal attack on unarmed humanitarians.”
CNN reported one vessel was rammed and others were targeted with water cannons, though no major injuries occurred.
The operation sparked swift backlash. Turkey labeled the action “terrorism,” Colombia called it an “international crime,” and protesters filled streets in Italy, Turkey, and Greece.
The episode comes just days after President Donald Trump unveiled a peace plan with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington.
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TIPP Staff
