Israeli naval forces on Friday illegally intercepted the last remaining vessel of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, the Polish-flagged Marinette, approximately 42.5 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza.

The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid and volunteers determined to break Israel’s illegal siege of Gaza, was attacked despite operating in international waters.

The organizers reported that Israeli soldiers boarded the Marinette and took the activists captive, abruptly cutting off the livestream after a soldier smashed the camera. The Marinette was the sole remaining vessel after over 38 hours of continuous Israeli naval assaults on all 42 flotilla ships, each carrying life-saving aid for Palestinians trapped under Israel’s 18-year blockade.

Since the flotilla set sail, Israel has systematically detained hundreds of international volunteers, blocking efforts to deliver vital supplies to Gaza, where millions face famine, medical shortages, and widespread destruction. Activists aboard the flotilla condemned the interception as a blatant violation of international law, targeting peaceful civilians engaged in humanitarian work.

The Israeli military claimed the flotilla was approaching a “combat zone” and accused the activists of breaching a “lawful blockade,” despite the fact that Gaza’s population is under a crippling siege that has denied access to food, medicine, and basic necessities for years. Organizers emphasized that Israel has refused all legitimate humanitarian channels and instead treats aid efforts as political provocations.

The interception of the Marinette has sparked global outrage, with protests erupting in Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Human rights organizations have condemned Israel’s actions, describing them as acts of collective punishment against the people of Gaza.

The detained activists are reportedly being held in Ketziot Prison, with potential deportation looming, highlighting the ongoing repression of those standing in solidarity with Palestinians.

For Gaza’s besieged population, the Global Sumud Flotilla represents not only a delivery of aid but also an act of international solidarity against decades of occupation and blockade. Despite Israel’s attacks, the flotilla’s organizers vow to continue efforts to break the siege and bring attention to Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe. (ILKHA)