The Israeli navy intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian aid flotilla en route to Gaza, in international waters. Activists from various countries were aboard the vessels. Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg was among those detained. Following the interception, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a video stating that all individuals were safe and being transported to an Israeli port. The incident occurred amid a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of escalating famine and malnutrition.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, described as the largest maritime humanitarian mission to date, departed from Spain on August 31, 2025, with stops in Italy, Greece, and Tunisia. The mission comprised over 50 boats and included activists, parliamentarians, and social workers from 44 countries. Over 500 people were onboard, including Greta Thunberg, Mandla Mandela (grandson of Nelson Mandela), and Italian parliamentarians. Twenty-four American activists and military veterans were also part of the mission. The flotilla aimed to challenge the 18-year-long Israeli naval blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid, including food, water, and medicine.
During the journey, the flotilla faced challenges. Activists reported drone attacks near Malta and Crete, damaging some ships. Despite these incidents, approximately 44 ships reached the eastern Mediterranean. Spain and Italy deployed warships to monitor the flotilla and provide assistance if needed. European and other governments appealed for restraint from all parties.
Israeli naval forces surrounded the flotilla approximately 130 kilometers from Gaza on Wednesday. According to eyewitnesses, Israeli ships used bright lights and water cannons before boarding and seizing control of the vessels.
Israel had previously warned the activists to use the Ashkelon port for inspection and delivery of aid, but the flotilla continued towards Gaza. Israel claims the flotilla has links to Hamas and poses a security risk. The organizers maintain that the mission is purely humanitarian, with the sole purpose of delivering aid to the people of Gaza.
The Israeli blockade of Gaza has been in place since 2007, following Hamas’s assumption of power. The blockade has been intensified since the October 2023 Hamas attacks and the ensuing war.
