High Seas Standoff: Vessels Bearing Aid to Gaza Blocked

A flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip was stopped by Israeli forces in international waters, according to organizers from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC). This marks the second interception of aid vessels in a week, reflecting ongoing tensions over Israel's blockade of the region.

The FFC, a network of pro-Palestinian activist groups, reported that while the vessels and passengers were safely transferred to an Israeli port, they were expected to be deported promptly. Israel's Foreign Ministry condemned the attempt as futile, asserting that it ended without breaching the naval blockade or entering a conflict zone.

This latest interception follows a similar incident involving the Global Sumud Flotilla, where Israeli forces detained over 450 activists. The FFC accused Israel of overstepping legal bounds by seizing ships in international waters and detaining humanitarians, including doctors and journalists. The aid was valued over $110,000, destined for Gaza's hospitals.

(With inputs from agencies.)