Israeli Navy Detains 21 Activists Intercepting Gaza-Bound Vessel

Israeli naval forces intercepted the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's vessel Handala in international waters as it attempted to breach the naval blockade of Gaza, detaining 21 international activists and journalists aboard. The ship, carrying humanitarian aid such as food, medical supplies, and baby formula, was towed to Ashdod port where the detainees, from multiple countries including the US, UK, France, and others, were held and questioned while consulting with lawyers. Israel justified the interception citing security concerns and the legality of the blockade under ongoing conflict conditions, denying allegations that the interception violated international maritime law. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the seizure as illegal and highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza exacerbated by the blockade, which has led to widespread starvation and medical system collapse. The detained activists include parliamentarians, lawyers, journalists, and human rights campaigners, some of whom are on hunger strike protesting their detention. This incident is part of a series of attempts by the Coalition to challenge the blockade and draw global attention to the situation in Gaza.