IDF Stops Activists on Board Freedom Flotilla
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Israeli soldiers boarded the Handala, a vessel operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla movement, while it was en route to Gaza. The interception occurred in international waters, according to a live broadcast from the group. Footage showed pro-Palestinian activists on deck with raised hands,singing the Italian anti-fascist song “Bella Ciao” as soldiers took control of the ship. The live video transmissions were interrupted shortly after.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition stated on social media that the Handala was “intercepted and illegally boarded by Israeli forces while in international waters.” An online tracking tool indicated the boat’s position was approximately 50 kilometers off the Egyptian coast and 100 kilometers west of Gaza at the time of the interception. The Israeli military had not immediately confirmed the operation, but earlier that day, it had announced its intention to enforce “the legal maritime security blockade on the Gaza Strip.”
The Handala was carrying 19 activists, including European politicians, and two journalists from Al Jazeera, who managed to transmit from the boat until just before the interception. Among those arrested were two French parliamentarians, Emma Foureau and Gabrielle Cathala.Their party leader,Jean-Luc Mélenchon of France Unbowed (LFI),condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “Netanyahu’s delinquents have boarded the Handala. They attacked 21 unarmed people in territorial waters where they have no right. A kidnapping of which two French parliamentarians are victims,” he wrote on X.
Mélenchon urged the French government to intervene. Gaza is currently facing a severe shortage of food and essential goods, with the United Nations and NGOs warning of an impending famine.The Handala crew had declared on X that they would begin a hunger strike if the Israeli army intercepted the boat and detained the passengers. The previous vessel sent by the Freedom Flotilla, the Madleen, was intercepted by the Israeli army in international waters on june 9 and towed to the Israeli port of Ashdod. It was carrying 12 activists,including the well-known Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
The soldiers of the IDF, who raided the Freedom Flotilla ship, were seen boarding the vessel.
Evergreen Insights: freedom Flotilla Context
the Freedom Flotilla Coalition is an international organization that organizes voyages to challenge the blockade of gaza. These flotillas aim to bring humanitarian aid and raise awareness about the situation in the Palestinian territories. The Handala, named after a famous Palestinian cartoon character, is a symbolic vessel in this movement. Interceptions by Israeli forces have occurred on previous occasions, often leading to international condemnation and diplomatic tensions.
The blockade of Gaza, imposed by Israel and Egypt, has been in place since 2007. International bodies, including the United Nations, have repeatedly called for an end to the blockade, citing its severe impact on the civilian population. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza,exacerbated by conflict and restrictions on essential goods,remains a important international concern.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Freedom Flotilla
What is the Freedom Flotilla?
The Freedom Flotilla is a coalition of international organizations and activists who organize maritime missions to challenge the blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid.
Why was the Handala intercepted?
According to Israel, the interception was part of enforcing the maritime security blockade on the Gaza Strip. The Freedom Flotilla states the interception occurred in international waters.
Who was on board the Handala?
the handala carried 19 activists, including European politicians and two journalists from Al Jazeera.
What are the conditions in Gaza?
Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with shortages of food and essential goods, and warnings of an imminent famine.
This article reports on a geopolitical event and dose not constitute health, financial, or legal advice.
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