Israeli Forces Intercept 41 Gaza Aid Flotilla Vessels, 10 Continue Sailing
Overview of Gaza Aid Flotilla Interception
Details of the Interception
ISTANBUL, May 19 (Reuters) - The organisers of an aid flotilla bound for Gaza said on Tuesday Israeli forces had intercepted 41 of their boats in the eastern Mediterranean, with 10 vessels still sailing toward the enclave.
Current Status of the Flotilla
The closest vessel to Gaza, Sirius, was 145 nautical miles away, the group said.
Israeli Response
Israel's foreign ministry had said on X on Monday that it "will not allow any breach of the lawful naval blockade on Gaza".
International Reactions
Turkey's Position
Speaking in Ankara late on Monday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan condemned the intervention against the "voyagers of hope" in the flotilla and called on the international community to act against Israel's actions.
Background on the Flotilla
Previous Attempts and Participants
Ships from the Global Sumud Flotilla had set sail for a third time on Thursday from southern Turkey, after earlier attempts to deliver aid to Gaza were intercepted by Israel in international waters.
The group said there were 426 people taking part in the 54-vessel flotilla from 39 countries.
Further Statements from Israel
Israel's foreign ministry has called on "all participants in this provocation to change course and turn back immediately".
(Reporting by Daren Butler; Editing by Timothy Heritage)
