Israel Intercepts Freedom Flotilla: International Outrage, Strikes, and Diplomatic Expulsions
Israel’s interception of the Freedom Flotilla bound for Gaza has sparked a wave of international condemnation and protest. Reactions ranged from strong denunciations and mass demonstrations to labor strikes and diplomatic expulsions, while the EU and several international organizations voiced deep concern over the developments.
Many observers described the Israeli action as a “blatant violation of international law” and an “attack on civilians and peaceful activists.” Tel Aviv, however, sought to frame the operation as a “preventive security measure” conducted safely.
Organizers of the humanitarian flotilla reported on Wednesday evening that several vessels were intercepted by the Israeli navy in international waters, including the ships Alma and Sirius. Israeli media confirmed that six large ships had been seized and that Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, one of the flotilla’s most prominent participants, had been arrested.
In Italy, the news triggered immediate outrage. The country’s largest trade union, CGIL, called for a general strike in solidarity with the flotilla’s passengers, condemning the assault on civilian vessels carrying Italian nationals. Protests erupted in Naples, Rome, and Genoa, with demonstrators blocking transport hubs and dockworkers pledging to shut down major ports.
Turkey escalated its rhetoric, labeling the interception an “act of terrorism” and accusing Israel of endangering innocent lives and gravely breaching international law. Ankara demanded the immediate release of its citizens and warned that the incident could undermine international efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.
In Colombia, President Gustavo Petro ordered the expulsion of the remaining Israeli diplomats in the country, calling the interception a “war crime.” He also announced the immediate suspension of the free trade agreement with Israel, stressing the protection of Colombian citizens’ safety and rights abroad.
Meanwhile, Hamas condemned the operation, describing it as “piracy and maritime terrorism against defenseless civilians.”
The Freedom Flotilla, which set sail from Spain in early September, includes more than 40 civilian vessels carrying nearly 500 activists from over 40 countries. Among them are parliamentarians, journalists, lawyers, and civil society figures. The flotilla was transporting humanitarian aid—infant formula, food supplies, and medicines—in an attempt to break Israel’s blockade on Gaza.
