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More than 20 Israeli boats are advancing toward the Global Sumud Flotilla in what organizers describe as a naval blockade attempt, according to a spokesperson for the humanitarian convoy.
Following the announcement of Israeli boats' advance, signal from the Estrella ship of the fotilla went dark.
The flotilla, now approximately 90 nautical miles from Gaza, continues sailing through what organizers characterize as a high-risk zone in the Eastern Mediterranean. The convoy reported that all participants aboard remain safe following what they described as an overnight period of "intimidation tactics" by Israel.
The Turkish Ministry of National Defense announced earlier that Turkish Naval Forces had evacuated 11 people from civilian vessels participating in the humanitarian aid operation, including three Turkish citizens who requested assistance.
"Within the scope of humanitarian aid activities carried out with civilian ships navigating in the Eastern Mediterranean, 11 people, including 3 Turkish citizens, who requested help have been evacuated to land by our Naval Forces elements so far," the ministry stated.
The Global Sumud Flotilla represents the largest collective sailing toward Gaza to date, carrying substantial humanitarian aid including medical supplies. The convoy comprises civil society representatives, doctors, lawyers, journalists, artists, politicians and activists from 44 countries.
The flotilla's name derives from the Arabic word "sumud," meaning steadfastness or unwavering determination. The term became prominent among Palestinians following the 1967 Six-Day War, evolving into a concept that encompasses remaining on the land, preserving Palestinian identity and culture, and resisting occupation through nonviolent civil disobedience.
In Palestinian symbolism, the olive tree and a pregnant village woman represent this principle of steadfast resistance.
The convoy had been expected to reach Gaza by Thursday morning, barring any Israeli military intervention.
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