Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla near Crete, detaining dozens of activists.
Israel said it detained about 175 activists after intercepting vessels from a pro-Palestinian flotilla in international waters near Crete.
Organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla said at least 22 boats were seized and accused Israel of acting unlawfully, calling the operation “piracy.”
They claimed the vessels were carrying aid and were intercepted far from Gaza.
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Israel’s foreign ministry dismissed the mission as a “PR stunt” and said the activists were being transported to Israel. Officials added that naval forces had warned the boats before taking control of those that did not comply.
The flotilla, which included dozens of vessels from European countries, aimed to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza.
The incident is likely to deepen tensions over Gaza access and raise fresh questions about maritime enforcement and international law.