Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sharply criticized Israel for intercepting the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla headed for Gaza, calling the action “banditry” and a brutal act against civilians delivering aid.
Erdogan said the incident once again exposed Israel’s “violent policies,” stressing that the flotilla’s mission highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Israeli Navy Seizes Flotilla Ships
On Wednesday, activists reported that the Israeli navy captured at least 19 ships from the flotilla as they approached Gaza’s coast. The flotilla consisted of around 50 vessels carrying 500 activists, with symbolic humanitarian aid on board.
According to organizers, the ships Sirius, Alma, and Adara were intercepted approximately 70 nautical miles from Gaza. Israeli authorities later confirmed that the passengers, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, were safe and being transferred to Israel.
International Figures On Board
The flotilla also carried prominent international figures such as:
- Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela
- Ada Colau, former Mayor of Barcelona
- Several European lawmakers
Despite the interception, the group declared its determination to continue its mission to challenge Israel’s blockade and deliver aid to Palestinians in Gaza.
Meta description (Yoast SEO): Turkish President Erdogan condemned Israel’s interception of the Gaza aid flotilla, calling it “banditry” and a brutal act against civilians.
