Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, far from its territorial jurisdiction, has triggered international backlash. Hundreds of activists, among them Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, were detained after Israeli naval forces stopped vessels carrying aid to Gaza. Governments and rights groups denounced the move as a blatant violation of international maritime law and humanitarian principles.

Interception Beyond Jurisdiction

The flotilla, consisting of over 40 civilian vessels with nearly 500 participants, was stopped around 70 nautical miles off Gaza’s coast. Activists described the raid as an “illegal act of desperation.” Israel claimed it was enforcing a “lawful naval blockade,” but maritime lawyers argue that boarding foreign vessels in international waters without imminent threat is unlawful. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called it “a grave offense” and demanded the release of detained nationals, while Türkiye denounced it as “an act of terrorism”.

Global Condemnation And Legal Critiques

Colombian President Gustavo Petro expelled Israeli diplomats and terminated a trade deal, branding the interception an “international crime.” Brazil also condemned the operation, stressing that Israel endangered peaceful protesters. Amnesty International labelled the Gaza blockade “unlawful,” while the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights urged Israel to lift restrictions and allow life-saving aid into Gaza. Observers compared the incident to the 2010 Mavi Marmara raid, which a UN inquiry had already deemed illegal under international law.

Humanitarian Consequences

The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has confirmed famine in Gaza, directly linked to Israel’s blockade. Aid agencies accuse Israel of systematically obstructing relief. Greta Thunberg rejected Israeli claims that the flotilla was a “publicity stunt,” saying: “No one risks their life for a photo opportunity.” Protests erupted across Europe, Latin America, and North Africa, with trade unions in Italy declaring a general strike in solidarity with Gaza.