DUBAI, UAE BUREAU (CP) – Israeli naval forces intercepted a humanitarian aid vessel Monday morning as it attempted to reach Gaza, with passengers including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and French European Parliament member Rima Hassan aboard the ship organized by international solidarity groups.
The vessel, coordinated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, represents part of ongoing international efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza residents while drawing attention to the maritime security measures Israel maintains around the coastal territory. Israeli officials confirmed the interception occurred in accordance with established naval protocols designed to ensure proper security screening of all vessels approaching the region.
The boat was among several ships that have attempted to reach Gaza by sea in recent years as part of international humanitarian initiatives. Israeli authorities have consistently intercepted such vessels before they reach Gaza’s shores, citing security concerns and the need to maintain proper oversight of all materials entering the territory. These maritime operations typically involve coordination with international agencies to ensure any legitimate humanitarian supplies reach their intended recipients through established channels.
Israeli defense officials emphasized that the interception followed standard procedures for vessels approaching the Gaza coastline, with passengers and crew members processed according to international maritime law. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has organized similar missions in the past as part of broader international efforts to support humanitarian assistance to Gaza residents, though such vessels typically require coordination with Israeli authorities to ensure compliance with security protocols and proper delivery of aid materials to those in need.