Israel Seizes Multiple Gaza-Bound Aid Flotillas Detaining Over 500 Activists

Israeli naval forces intercepted and seized multiple flotillas attempting to break the naval blockade of Gaza, detaining around 145 activists aboard nine vessels including yachts and a cruise ship. The flotillas, organized by groups such as the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and Thousand Madleens to Gaza, were carrying humanitarian aid including medical supplies, food, and respiratory equipment destined for Gaza hospitals. The interceptions occurred approximately 120 nautical miles from Gaza, leading to disputes over the legality as activists claim they were in international waters while Israel asserts the security blockade justifies their actions. Israeli authorities reported that detainees were unharmed, transferred to Israeli ports, and expected to be deported soon, while flotilla organizers condemned the seizures as arbitrary and unlawful. The incidents have sparked international criticism and calls for investigations into potential violations of maritime rights and international law, with activists emphasizing their missions as peaceful humanitarian efforts. Notably, high-profile figures such as climate activist Greta Thunberg were among those detained in recent flotilla attempts, intensifying global attention on the ongoing blockade and conflict.