“The illegal interception of the Flotilla is not an act of defence, it is a brazen act of desperation,” the flotilla said in its latest statement.
“It clearly reveals the extreme lengths to which the occupier will go to ensure Gaza remains starved and isolated.”
In a post on its Instagram account, the flotilla added “They will attack a peaceful civilian mission because the success of humanitarian aid means the failure of their siege."
"The world is watching the crime in action.”
Organizers confirmed that Israeli naval forces seized nine out of the 44 boats that make up the Global Sumud Flotilla: Sirus, Alma, Spectra, Hoga, Adara, Florida, Yulara, Deir Yassin, and Meteque. The Flotilla reported that six boats was seized while. Florida was rammed by Israeli vessels during the operation. Israeli forces also deployed water cannons to block the passage of the other two boats.
Despite the assault, some vessels were reported to still be moving forward toward Gaza, attempting to break through Israel’s naval blockade.
The flotilla had set sail last month with activists and humanitarian supplies, aiming to deliver emergency aid to Gaza’s population, which has been subjected to nearly two years of genovidal war, siege, and systematic starvation.
The interception in international waters drew accusations from organizers that Israel is not only enforcing its blockade by force but also trampling international law to silence humanitarian solidarity.
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