Israel Intercepts Gaza Aid Flotilla; Turkey Investigates

Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters as it sought to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, detaining scores of activists including Turkish nationals. Istanbul prosecutors opened criminal investigations into the detentions and alleged maritime crimes while Turkish consular officials said they were monitoring the situation and assisting families. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan denounced the raid as “banditry,” accused Israel of committing genocide, vowed protection for detained activists and reiterated calls for a ceasefire. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the interception as a violation of international law and an International Court of Justice injunction, demanding the immediate release of detainees and delivery of life‑saving cargo to Gaza. Reports vary on the number of detained Turks — prosecutors cited 24 while activist groups said as many as 56 — and Turkish organizations published lists of names; governments and rights advocates urged that humanitarian aid be allowed through unimpeded.