Tensions Rise as Israeli Navy Intercepts Gaza Flotilla

Tue Oct 14 2025 08:55:18 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Israeli navy has ordered a flotilla of ships carrying aid to Gaza to change course, leading to accusations of military intervention by activists. The Global Sumud Flotilla reports their vessels have been boarded, stirring international concern over the situation.

The Israeli navy has told the Global Sumud Flotilla to alter its course, claiming they are approaching a combat zone. Activists on board report being intercepted and boarded by military personnel, raising alarms about safety and the legality of the blockade. International leaders express concern as the flotilla seeks to provide humanitarian aid amidst heightened tensions.

The Israeli navy has told a flotilla carrying aid towards Gaza to change course, as activists say the boats have been intercepted.

The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) wrote on social media that some of its vessels had been boarded by military personnel after being approached by Israeli ships and that it was working to confirm the status of those aboard.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that the navy had notified the flotilla of their approach towards an active combat zone, although Israel has not confirmed boarding any vessels.

In the past, Israel declared it would not allow the flotilla to reach its destination. Previous attempts have seen activists detained and taken ashore.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry insists the flotilla was violating a lawful naval blockade in the waters adjacent to Gaza, but it remains unclear if the boats had crossed into this zone.

According to GSF, multiple ships including the Alma, one of their main vessels, along with the Surius and the Adara, have been intercepted and boarded.

They have accused the Israeli military of intentionally damaging ship communications to obstruct distress signals during their boarding.

Despite these claims, several webcams continue to livestream from the ships, showing activists on board.

The GSF reported their location as 70 nautical miles from the Gaza shoreline and expressed hopes of reaching their destination by Thursday morning.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed interception of the GSF flotilla and stated that France has taken measures to ensure any potential boarding operation occurs safely.

Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, shared that Israel has assured that its armed forces will refrain from violence against the 500 individuals aboard, which includes Italian politicians and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

This latest flotilla represents another effort to deliver aid to Gaza, following two unsuccessful attempts by activists in recent months, prompting Italy and Greece to call on Israel to prioritize the safety and security of those on board as they continue to monitor the situation.