Members of the "Freedom Flotilla," a pro-Palestinian convoy aiming to reach Gaza by sea, announced Wednesday morning that Israeli forces had taken control of their vessels.
The Foreign Ministry confirmed that Israeli forces seized the boats and redirected them to an Israeli port. "Another futile attempt to breach the legal naval blockade and enter an active combat zone ended in failure," the ministry posted on X. "The boats and passengers were transferred to an Israeli port. All passengers are safe and well. They are expected to be deported immediately."
Within 40 minutes, the IDF had taken control of all nine vessels—one a 68-meter (223-foot) ship, and the other eight smaller boats. The Israeli Navy had warned the flotilla to change course, but its participants refused.
The operation to seize the largest ship was carried out by Shayetet 13, the elite Israeli naval commando unit, using both naval vessels and helicopters to board.
The passengers are now being brought to the Port of Ashdod. Around 150 people have been detained, and will be transferred to Israel Police custody upon arrival.
This latest flotilla included nine boats, carrying primarily medical personnel and journalists. Its lead vessel, the Handala, had been slated to participate in earlier convoys but was reportedly attacked by "unidentified actors" off the coast of Malta in May.
According to organizers, around 90 of those aboard are doctors and nurses, and the flotilla was carrying one ton of medical supplies, respiratory equipment, and food intended for malnourished individuals in Gaza.
One of the participants, Dr. Francesco Prenti, an Italian pro-Palestinian activist, had called on Italian citizens ahead of the voyage to stage protests in support of the flotilla's members. "I ask everyone to take to the streets again and demonstrate non-violently for 'Palestine' and for all the activists who risk another criminal assault," he said.
