Italy's Navy Plans Exit from Gaza Aid Flotilla Amid Israeli Interception Risk

Italy's navy will cease escorting the Global Sumud Flotilla when it approaches 150 nautical miles from Gaza, as per the Italian defense ministry, to avoid a diplomatic incident with Israel. The flotilla, comprising over 40 civilian vessels with parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists including Greta Thunberg, aims to break Israel's blockade of the Palestinian enclave. The Italian frigate will issue two warnings before stopping its escort, but activists have stated they intend to continue despite these warnings. Tensions are elevated as Israel has vowed to prevent the flotilla from reaching Gaza, considering its blockade legal in its conflict with Hamas militants. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto expects interception and arrests at sea, and has made a final appeal for the flotilla to accept a compromise to drop aid in Cyprus, which the flotilla representatives have rejected. The flotilla has already faced attacks by drones armed with stun grenades and irritants in international waters, raising fears of further Israeli action.