DaysofPal— Israeli occupation forces have seized most vessels participating in a Gaza-bound solidarity Sumud Flotilla and detained activists aboard in a floating prison, according to Nour Rami Saad, spokesperson for the Solidarity Sumud Flotilla initiative.
Speaking to local media, Saad said Israeli forces intercepted the Sumud Flotilla in international waters, approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza, describing the operation as “piracy” and a violation of international maritime law.
She stated that the flotilla initially included 54 vessels carrying around 500 international activists from more than 100 countries, but that most ships have since been seized, with only 11 remaining. According to her account, detained activists have not been transferred to Israeli ports but are being held at sea.
Saad said the Sumud Flotilla was carrying humanitarian supplies, including medicine, medical equipment, and essential goods intended to support Gaza’s strained healthcare system. She accused Israeli forces of forcibly boarding the vessels and detaining participants.
The activist also held the governments of countries under whose flags the ships were sailing responsible for ensuring the safety of their citizens, calling the protection of the activists a legal obligation.
She linked the flotilla incident to growing international solidarity with Gaza, pointing to demonstrations in European cities such as Milan, Barcelona, and Madrid.
According to Saad, these protests reflect increasing public pressure and dissatisfaction with government responses.
Describing the Sumud Flotilla as an ethical uprising, she said its mission extends beyond delivering aid to drawing global attention to Gaza and challenging the ongoing blockade.
She argued that repeated interceptions of such missions are damaging Israel’s international image and contributing to mounting legal and diplomatic challenges.
Saad also suggested that the cumulative impact of successive flotillas could eventually contribute to breaking the blockade, framing the effort as part of a broader, long-term strategy supported by international civil society.
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