Netanyahu Commends Navy for Intercepting Gaza-Bound Flotilla

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his appreciation for the Israeli Navy’s actions in intercepting the aid flotilla attempting to reach Gaza. Netanyahu acknowledged the navy’s soldiers and commanders, noting their professional and efficient conduct during Yom Kippur. He stated that their actions prevented numerous vessels from entering the conflict zone and challenged attempts to undermine Israel’s international standing. The Global Samud Flotilla, consisting of 45 vessels and including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, had embarked on its journey last month with the goal of reaching Gaza. The Israeli Navy had been intercepting the vessels since Wednesday, advising activists against entering the designated waters. Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the thwarting of the flotilla’s attempts to enter the combat zone and breach the naval blockade. The ministry indicated that another vessel remaining would also be prevented from entry. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis stated that 39 of the 45 ships were intercepted and diverted to Ashdod. Gerapetritis reported that the passengers were in good health and that no violence had been used. The Greek organizers of the flotilla reported that 11 Greek citizens on board had initiated a hunger strike, protesting their detention. Israel announced that the activists would be deported to Europe without specifying the destination country. The Israeli Foreign Minister posted on ‘X’ stating the Hamas-Sumud passengers were safely en route to Israel for deportation to Europe, alongside photos of Greta Thunberg and other activists. Previously, Israeli forces had intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla en route to Gaza, detaining several activists, including Greta Thunberg. The Israeli Foreign Ministry released a video showing an Israeli soldier returning Thunberg’s belongings. The ministry confirmed that Greta and her friends were safe and healthy, and several vessels had already been diverted to Israeli ports. Out of 47 ships, Israeli troops had raided only six, detaining over 150 activists from 37 different countries. The ministry’s video post announced that the passengers were being transferred to an Israeli port and that Greta and her companions were safe.