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Israeli military began intercepting the Global Sumud Flotilla on Wednesday evening as the convoy of ships carrying humanitarian aid attempted to reach Gaza, with the Israeli Navy warning vessels by radio that they would be stopped and seized.
The Israeli military contacted the flotilla on channel 16, claiming the attempt to break the blockade violated international law. The navy warned that aid could only be delivered through Israeli-approved channels, threatening to forcibly stop the ships, seize them and pursue legal action against those aboard.
According to a statement from the Global Sumud Flotilla, Israeli military also broadcast propaganda messages referencing October 7 in what organizers described as an attempt at psychological pressure. Despite the threats, flotilla organizers said their vessels continued their humanitarian mission, with a representative named Thiago responding over the radio frequency to emphasize the legitimacy of the mission and international support.
Turkish activist Emin Aydin reported that 12 Israeli vessels were spotted approaching, with interventions beginning against the lead ships. "Israel may launch an attack to stop us. Please pray for us," Aydın said. "Our captain called us to the deck and asked us to put on our life jackets. Our only hope is to reach Gaza."
Yasemin Acar, a committee member of the Global Sumud Flotilla, confirmed that Israeli ships had surrounded the Alma, one of the vessels in the convoy. "The Israeli military has now surrounded the Alma ship from both sides, they came very close, we are taking our positions and are ready to be stopped," she said.
Israeli and Palestinian airspace was closed Wednesday evening as the confrontation unfolded. Activists donned life jackets and gathered on the decks of their ships in preparation for the expected Israeli intervention.
The Global Sumud Flotilla broadcast a message to Israeli vessels by radio, stating: "We repeat once again. We are a peaceful, non-violent, humanitarian solidarity mission for our Palestinian brothers and sisters in Gaza. Our mission is in accordance with international law. Any attempt to prevent or disrupt this mission is contrary to international law. We want you to know that the whole world is with us. You will be held responsible for any hostile action against our flotilla."
Organizers said live broadcasts from most ships were cut off as Israeli warships blocked communications. Crew members on the vessels were heard reciting martyrdom prayers as Israeli military closed in. Turkish activist Muhammed Salih Dalli, a passenger on the Adagio sailing vessel, reported that "Israeli soldiers are now beside us."
The flotilla, which includes participants from Türkiye and other nations, aims to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and draw international attention to what organizers call the illegality of the Israeli blockade. The civilian convoy has maintained that its mission is peaceful and operates within international law.
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