The Israeli navy has intercepted a flotilla of aid ships attempting to reach Gaza and detained several international activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.
The flotilla, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, set sail carrying humanitarian supplies and activists from multiple countries. Organizers described the mission as peaceful, with banners calling for freedom for Gaza and boxes of aid materials on board.
According to eyewitness accounts, Israeli naval vessels surrounded the flotilla at sea before armed forces boarded the boats. Passengers were ordered to remain seated as soldiers took control. Some activists raised their hands in protest, chanting that their mission was non-violent.
Thunberg, who has become a prominent voice in global climate advocacy, was among those escorted away by Israeli forces. The detained activists were later transferred to naval boats and taken into Israeli custody.
Supporters of the flotilla staged solidarity demonstrations, waving Palestinian flags and carrying posters of Thunberg, demanding the release of all detainees.
The interception has sparked sharp reactions. Activists accused Israel of blocking essential humanitarian aid and violating international law, while Israeli authorities insisted that no unauthorized vessels would be allowed to reach Gaza by sea.
As the activists remain in detention, protests on land continue to call for their freedom.
Report by: Isaac Blessing | Edited by: Chris Odjomah