Israel Intercepts Gaza-Bound Flotilla, Detains 175 Activists

30/04/2026

TEL AVIV, Apr 30: Israel said its naval forces intercepted a flotilla of boats carrying pro-Palestinian activists attempting to reach Gaza, detaining around 175 people aboard more than 20 vessels, according to a statement from the foreign ministry. Officials said the activists were being transported “peacefully” to Israel, releasing video footage showing detainees onboard an Israeli navy ship.

The flotilla was part of a larger convoy of more than 50 boats organized by international activists seeking to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. The vessels had departed in recent weeks from ports in Marseille, Barcelona, and Syracuse, carrying humanitarian aid supplies intended for the enclave.

Organizers, including the group Global Sumud Flotilla, accused Israeli forces of intercepting the boats in international waters. In a post on X, the group said Israeli military vessels had “illegally surrounded the flotilla” and threatened those on board. According to the group’s tracking data, the convoy was located near the Greek island of Crete at the time of the incident.

Israel maintains tight control over all entry points into Gaza, citing security concerns. However, the blockade has drawn sustained criticism from the United Nations and international aid organizations, which say restrictions on goods have contributed to severe shortages in the territory since the war began in October 2023.