Israel Intercepts Sumud Flotilla, Detains Hundreds

Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla of roughly 40–41 vessels carrying about 400–500 activists and aid bound for Gaza in international waters on Oct. 1–2, detaining hundreds, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, organizers said. Organizers said the convoy aimed to deliver food, baby formula and medicine amid UN famine warnings and that activists were met with water cannon, "skunk" water and communications jamming; Israel called the mission a provocation that violated a lawful naval blockade and said safe land or port delivery had been offered. Israel said none of the boats breached the blockade, that detained people are safe, are being taken to Ashdod for processing and will be deported to Europe, and that one vessel remained at a distance under warning. The interception prompted large protests and solidarity actions across Europe, with thousands marching in Barcelona and Madrid, widespread demonstrations and student sit‑ins in Italy, union calls for strikes and arrests reported in cities including Marseille, Genoa and Rome. The episode has intensified international debate over Gaza aid access, the legality and safety of naval blockades, and the role of high-profile civil disobedience in pressuring governments to act on the humanitarian crisis.