More than 100 pro-Palestinian activists aboard aid vessels attempting to reach Gaza were transferred to the Greek island of Crete on Friday, following their interception and seizure by Israeli forces in international waters near Greece.

The activists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla (also referred to as the second Global Sumud mission), a major civilian effort involving dozens of boats aimed at challenging Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza and delivering humanitarian assistance.

The flotilla, which included participants from over 20 nationalities, originally set sail from the Spanish port of Barcelona on April 12, 2026, with the number of vessels growing to more than 50–70 as it progressed through the Mediterranean. 

Israeli naval forces intercepted at least 20–22 boats late on Wednesday, April 30, in international waters west or northwest of Crete — roughly 600–1,000 kilometres from Gaza. Activists accused Israeli commandos of boarding the vessels by force, disabling engines and navigation systems, jamming communications, and detaining participants. Organisers described the operation as “piracy” and an “illegal act” carried out far from Israeli waters. 

Israeli authorities confirmed the interception, stating that around 175 activists from more than 20 boats were initially detained. Israel described the flotilla as a “PR stunt” and emphasised that it would not allow any breach of its lawful naval blockade on Gaza, which it maintains to prevent weapons smuggling into the territory. Most of the detained activists were later transferred to Greek authorities and taken to Crete rather than being brought to Israel. 

Greek officials, including government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, confirmed that Greek coastguard vessels had been monitoring the situation as the flotilla sailed near Greek waters.The incident marks the latest in a series of attempts by the Global Sumud Flotilla to break the blockade. A previous mission in 2025 also faced interception by Israeli forces.

Organisers insist the vessels carried humanitarian aid and were engaged in a peaceful protest against the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Israel has repeatedly stated that such flotillas pose security risks and that adequate aid channels already exist through established mechanisms.

Reactions have been mixed. Turkey condemned the interception as “an act of piracy” and a violation of international law. Several other countries, including Spain and Ireland, expressed concern over the events. Meanwhile, Israel maintained that the operation was conducted professionally and that the activists were treated safely.

As of Friday, May 1, a number of vessels from the flotilla reportedly remained at sea, with organisers indicating plans to continue their mission where possible.The development has once again highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding maritime efforts to reach Gaza amid the prolonged conflict and blockade. (ILKHA)