Israeli navy attacks Freedom Flotilla ships off Greek island of Crete

ALBAWABA- Israeli naval forces have intercepted and seized multiple vessels from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition in international waters near the Greek island of Crete, in a move that has triggered sharp condemnation from Turkey and renewed tensions over Gaza.

The operation, described by Israeli officials as a preemptive measure to prevent the convoy from reaching Gaza, took place hundreds of kilometers from Israeli shores. According to Israeli Army Radio, at least 21 ships were stopped, while Channel 12 reported that around 50 vessels carrying roughly 400 activists were seized.

Israeli authorities said further action could be taken against the remaining ships if they refused to turn back, stressing that the operation was aimed at enforcing the naval blockade on Gaza and preventing unauthorised entry.

Turkey strongly condemned the interception, with its Foreign Ministry describing the action as “an act of piracy” and a violation of international law. Ankara called for a unified international response against what it termed Israel’s unlawful conduct. The issue has also prompted diplomatic engagement with European partners, including discussions between Turkish and Spanish officials.

INTERCEPTION HAPPENING NOW pic.twitter.com/lwXVnysDV7

— Global Sumud Flotilla (@gbsumudflotilla) April 30, 2026

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition said the convoy was part of a broader humanitarian mission under the Global Sumud Flotilla initiative, aimed at delivering aid to Gaza and challenging Israel’s long-standing naval blockade.

Activists accused Israel of breaching international law by boarding civilian vessels in international waters, while Israel maintains that such actions are necessary for security and consistent with its blockade policy.

The incident has further strained relations between Turkey and Israel and drawn renewed international attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The Freedom Flotilla movement has organised repeated attempts to reach Gaza since 2010, positioning its missions as non-violent civil resistance against the blockade. Despite previous interceptions, including similar operations in 2025, organisers have continued to launch new convoys, making the Spring 2026 mission one of the largest to date.