Erdogan Condemns Interception of Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla, Calls it ‘Piracy’
Jakarta – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has strongly condemned teh Israeli interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, labeling the action as an act of “piracy” and evidence of Israel’s desperation to conceal its actions.
Speaking in Türkiye on Thursday, October 2, 2024, Erdogan stated, “The Netanyahu government who committed genocide cannot tolerate the slightest chance of peace to be realized.” He characterized the interception as another example of Israeli brutality and a demonstration of the “face of Israeli killers.”
“The Global Sumud Fleet once again shows the world the brutality in Gaza,” Erdogan added, pledging continued support for Palestinians and efforts to secure a ceasefire and restore peace.
The condemnation follows an proclamation from the Istanbul Attorney General’s Office that it has launched an investigation into the detention of Turkish citizens who were aboard the ships attempting to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza.
Hamas has also accused Israel of “piracy” against the Global Sumud Flotilla, calling for international condemnation of the interception. The flotilla, comprised of approximately 45 ships carrying politicians and activists from various nations - including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg – departed from Spain last month aiming to deliver aid to Gaza, which the United Nations reports is facing famine conditions.
Israeli forces intercepted the ships on Wednesday, October 1, 2024, issuing warnings before preventing them from entering waters designated as being under blockade. Thunberg’s vessel was among those prevented from proceeding.
(AZH/YGS)
