Israel Intercepts Gaza Aid Flotilla, Sparks Protests

Israeli naval forces intercepted and boarded multiple vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla—about 40–50 civilian boats carrying roughly 500 activists, parliamentarians and lawyers, including Greta Thunberg—as they approached Gaza. Israel said several ships were "safely stopped" and warned the convoy was entering a combat zone under a lawful naval blockade, while organizers called the actions a provocation and illegal. Organizers and footage alleged use of water cannons, ramming and seizures, and reports cited at least 13 boats intercepted and around 70 arrests, with detained nationals reported to include Irish citizens and at least one U.S. national. The interceptions prompted mass protests, strikes and diplomatic outcry across Europe and Latin America, with governments and organizations from Turkey, Italy and others condemning the operation. Flotilla organizers and allied unions vowed to continue efforts and protests as Israel offered alternative channels for aid delivery and reiterated security justifications.