Global Sumud aid flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces

The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of approximately 50 vessels carrying over 400 volunteers, attempted to break the Israeli naval blockade of Gaza this week. On Monday, Israeli forces intercepted the majority of the fleet in international waters off the coast of Cyprus. Organizers reported that Israeli commandos boarded several vessels and detained the activists, while Israeli officials stated the operation was a success and that all intercepted individuals would be transferred to Israel for processing. One vessel from the flotilla, the Vivy Sabre, arrived in Kato Paphos, Cyprus, early Tuesday following technical difficulties. The boat, carrying six crew members from various nations, remains at the harbour as they await departure instructions. While flotilla organisers alleged an attack by commandos and the use of force, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied the use of live ammunition. The Joint Rescue Coordination Center of Cyprus confirmed that all activities occurred in international waters approximately 90 nautical miles from Cyprus and that no vessels entered Cypriot territorial waters.