Last Boat in Gaza Humanitarian Flotilla Intercepted by Israel

Israel has intercepted the last remaining vessel of the Global Sumud Flotilla, bringing an end to the largest naval aid mission yet attempted to break the blockade on Gaza. The Marinette, a Polish-flagged boat with a crew of six, was seized on Friday morning, according to livestream footage from flotilla organizers.

Hundreds of Activists Detained

The Israeli military confirmed that all 44 boats in the flotilla have now been intercepted since Wednesday. More than 460 activists from over 40 countries have been detained, including high-profile figures such as climate activist Greta Thunberg, former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, and Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated that four Italian citizens have already been deported, with the rest of the detainees awaiting expulsion. The ministry added that all detainees are “safe and in good health,” though flotilla organizers report that some have begun hunger strikes in protest.

Journalists Among the Detained

Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemned the arrests, noting that more than 20 journalists were on board to cover the mission.
“Arresting journalists and preventing them from doing their work is a serious violation of press freedom,” said Martin Roux, head of RSF’s crisis desk.

Global Condemnation

The interception has drawn widespread criticism. Leaders from Colombia, Germany, France, Spain, Greece, Ireland, and the UK have called on Israel to respect international law and the rights of detainees. Colombian President Gustavo Petro went further, announcing the expulsion of Israeli diplomats and the suspension of a free trade agreement.

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) also condemned the seizures, calling them “illegal under international law” and warning against turning the seas into “a theatre of war.”

UN Reaction

While the United Nations has yet to issue an official statement, UN special rapporteur for Palestine Francesca Albanese described the seizures as “an illegal abduction” and expressed solidarity with the people of Gaza, who remain under blockade.

A Humanitarian Mission Blocked

The Global Sumud Flotilla was carrying humanitarian supplies intended for Gaza, which has faced severe shortages due to the long-standing blockade. Organizers say the mission was purely peaceful, but Israel insists the flotilla attempted to breach what it calls a “lawful naval blockade.”

The seizure of the last boat marks the end of an unprecedented humanitarian effort, but international pressure on Israel is likely to intensify as protests erupt across multiple countries.