An international flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza reported that unidentified vessels approached some of its boats before dawn on Wednesday as it neared Israel’s naval blockade zone. The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of over 40 civilian boats carrying around 500 people, includes parliamentarians, lawyers, activists, and Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg. Organizers said they were approaching the 120-nautical-mile mark, an area where past flotillas have been intercepted or attacked while attempting to reach the besieged Palestinian enclave.
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In a statement, the flotilla organizers accused an Israeli military vessel of carrying out “dangerous manoeuvres” and damaging their communication systems before departing. A video posted on their social media showed the silhouette of what appeared to be a military ship with a gun turret near civilian boats. However, the footage has not been independently verified. Israeli officials have not yet responded to the claims, fueling speculation about the nature of the encounter and the potential risks facing the convoy.
The flotilla has already drawn international attention after coming under drone attacks in recent days, during which stun grenades and itching powder were dropped on the vessels. The assault caused equipment damage but left no reported injuries. Israel did not claim responsibility for the attack, though it has previously made clear that it will use any means necessary to enforce its blockade on Gaza. Officials in Tel Aviv argue that the naval restrictions are legal and necessary to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas fighters.
Meanwhile, European nations have deployed limited support for the flotilla. Italy and Spain both sent naval ships to provide rescue and humanitarian assistance if required, while Turkish drones are monitoring the flotilla’s progress. However, Italy has announced that its navy will stop following the convoy once it gets within 150 nautical miles of Gaza, citing security risks. Spain also clarified that its maritime rescue ship remains on standby for emergencies but will not enter the Israeli exclusion zone to avoid endangering its crew.
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The Global Sumud Flotilla has heightened tensions across the region, with governments and international organizations closely watching the outcome of its journey. Organizers insist their mission is humanitarian, aimed at breaking Israel’s blockade and delivering aid to civilians trapped in Gaza amid the ongoing war. As the boats continue toward the exclusion zone, concerns are rising that another confrontation could occur, putting hundreds of lives at risk and escalating already fragile regional dynamics.