AMMAN — The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza, was intercepted on Thursday by Israeli naval forces in international waters, sparking international outcry and renewed debate over the legality of Israel’s long-standing blockade.

 

The confrontation occurred approximately 70 to 100 nautical miles off the coast, well beyond Israel’s recognised maritime borders. Activists on board said their mission was entirely peaceful, aimed at breaking the 18-year siege imposed on the territory. Israel, however, described the area as a “combat zone” and insisted it would not permit any ship to reach Gaza under any circumstances. Israeli foreign minister Gidon Saar said, “Israel will not allow unauthorised vessels to enter a combat zone.”

 

Israel’s public broadcaster later reported that the seized ships would be towed to the port of Ashdod, even suggesting some could be sunk at sea to enforce the blockade.

 

In a viral video, German activist Yasmin Ajar, travelling on the vessel Madeline, described the episode as an abduction in international waters.

 

“We were forced to sign papers claiming we had entered Israel illegally,” she said. “But the truth is, we were kidnapped 100 nautical miles from Israeli territory. Our destination was Gaza, an occupied territory. This is a violation of international law. We did not go to Israel…we came for the truth, and we will stay with the truth.”

 

Portuguese activist Tiago Avila underscored the peaceful intent of the Global Sumud Flotilla. “Our mission is humanitarian, non-violent, one of solidarity, to break the illegal siege on the Palestinian people,” he said. “We carry only food, water filters and baby formula. We want to create a humanitarian corridor.”

 

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, also aboard, posted a video describing the interception as forcible. “I have been abducted by the Israeli military,” she said. “Our humanitarian mission was non-violent and fully consistent with international law.”

 

Kuwaiti surgeon Mohamed Jamal, another participant, shared his concerns on Instagram. “Doctors are being kidnapped because we are bringing formula and food,” he said.

 

Reports indicate that one vessel, which lost signal before reappearing inside Gaza’s territorial waters, was about 9.3 miles from the coast Thursday morning, raising fears for the safety of those on board.

 

Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, ships in international waters enjoy freedom of navigation. Beyond 12 nautical miles from any coastline, vessels are legally allowed to sail freely, with only the country whose flag they fly having jurisdiction.

 

For now, the vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla remain under Israeli control, with activists expected to face detention and deportation. Yet organisers have vowed to persist. “We came for justice. We came for humanity. We will not stop until Gaza is free,” Avila said.