Pro-Palestinian flotilla claims Israeli military boats surrounded vessels near Gaza

Organisers of a pro-Palestinian maritime convoy, the Global Sumud Flotilla, have said their vessels were surrounded by Israeli military boats while sailing in international waters near Greece, raising tensions over attempts to reach the Gaza Strip.

The flotilla, made up of more than 50 boats carrying activists and humanitarian supporters, departed from multiple European ports including Marseille in France, Barcelona in Spain, and Syracuse in Italy. Its stated aim is to break the long-standing maritime blockade on Gaza.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the organisers alleged that Israeli naval forces approached the convoy during the night, surrounded several boats, and issued threats. They further claimed that communication was disrupted with at least 11 vessels, while distress signals were sent out amid fears of escalation.

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The group also alleged that military speedboats identified as Israeli forces used lasers and carried weapons while ordering passengers to move to the front of the boats and assume vulnerable positions. These claims have not yet been independently verified by international observers.

The flotilla is currently positioned off the coast of Crete, according to its live tracking system. Organisers say the incident included electronic interference and communication jamming, increasing concern among participants about their safety.

This is not the first such attempt. In a similar mission in late 2025, another flotilla involving activists, including climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, was intercepted by Israeli naval forces. Participants were detained and later deported by Israel, while organisers and human rights groups described the action as unlawful.

The Gaza Strip has remained under an Israeli blockade since 2007, with Israel citing security concerns linked to Hamas, which governs the territory. Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violating ceasefire agreements, including the most recent truce reached in October 2025 after prolonged conflict.