A new flotilla bound for Gaza has been intercepted by the Israeli army on Wednesday, days after the detention of several high-profile activists on a separate flotilla sparked large protests in Europe.
The Israeli foreign ministry confirmed that at least 145 activists were brought to shore for processing and are expected to be deported soon. Among them were doctors, politicians and three Turkish lawmakers.
“Another futile attempt to breach the legal naval blockade and enter a combat zone ended in nothing,” the foreign ministry wrote on X.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, comprised of nine vessels, said it "poses no harm" and that the "Israeli military has no legal jurisdiction over international waters."
“Three vessels – Gaza Sunbirds, Alaa Al-Najjar, and Anas Al-Sharif – have been attacked and illegally intercepted by the Israeli military” on Wednesday morning, around 220km off the coast of Gaza, organisers posted on X.
Organisers said the boats were intercepted around 120 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza. In footage of the interceptions, the flotilla boats are approached by fast-moving ships and then boarded by Israeli troops. No injuries were reported.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition is a network of pro-Palestinian groups aiming to end Israel's aid blockade of Gaza.
The interception of this flotilla comes after Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, sparking widespread protests and a general strike in Italy.
At least 450 activists were detained, including climate campaigner Greta Thunberg. Israel said it offered all activists voluntary deportation. Those who refuse will undergo a legal deportation process.
Several activists have alleged they were mistreated, a claim Israel has said is a "brazen lie".
