Israeli Forces Seize Gaza-Bound Aid Ship “Handala” in International Waters

Israeli military forces have seized the Handala, a humanitarian aid ship sailing from Italy to Gaza, and detained all 21 crew members on board. The vessel, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), was carrying food, medicine, and essential supplies for children in Gaza, which remains under a long-standing Israeli blockade.

Among those detained is Emma Fourreau, a Member of the European Parliament from France. Just before being taken into custody, she made a brief phone call, stating:
“Israeli soldiers are here. We’re throwing our phones into the sea. See you soon.”

Operation in International Waters

According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, Israeli forces intercepted the Handala approximately 40 nautical miles (74 kilometres) from the coast of Gaza, well within international waters. The boarding occurred around midnight, and communication with the vessel was cut off immediately afterward.

FFC has strongly condemned the action, calling it a “blatant violation of international maritime law,” emphasising that the ship was unarmed and solely on a humanitarian mission.

Crew from 12 Countries Detained

The seized ship was carrying 21 humanitarian activists, including doctors, volunteers, and parliamentarians from 12 different countries. FFC stated that the mission aimed to break the Israeli blockade and deliver urgent supplies to Gazan civilians facing starvation and medical shortages.

Continued Commitment to Gaza

Despite the seizure, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition reaffirmed its commitment to reaching Gaza with humanitarian aid. “We will not be silenced or stopped. The people of Gaza deserve support, not siege,” the organisation declared in a statement.

Silence from World Powers

Legal experts and human rights organisations are raising concerns over the legality of Israel’s operation in international waters. However, there has been no immediate official response from major governments or international bodies—a silence that critics say reflects the global community’s inaction in the face of growing humanitarian crises in Gaza.