Israel intends to intercept the Freedom Flotilla en route to Gaza and detain all those on board, an Israeli source told local media this morning, as the vessel Madleen enters a critical stage of its voyage in Egyptian territorial waters.

The flotilla, part of an international campaign to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza, is scheduled to approach the enclave’s coast within 48 hours. Israeli authorities have warned they will not permit any breach of the naval blockade and plan to detain all participants aboard the ship.

The source stated that the Israeli navy has been placed on high alert and is tracking the flotilla’s movement closely.

Symbolic Resistance and Humanitarian Message

The flotilla, reportedly carrying activists, journalists, and humanitarian supplies, is intended as a peaceful protest against the long-standing blockade on Gaza. The Madleen set sail from Italy last week and has since moved through international waters before entering Egypt’s maritime zone.

Organizers say their goal is to draw attention to Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, particularly in light of recent escalations in the region.

Regional and Legal Implications

International activists have urged Egypt to allow the flotilla safe passage and warned Israel against using force. Legal observers say any interception in international or Egyptian waters could trigger diplomatic disputes, though Israel insists its actions fall under security imperatives.

Past flotilla confrontations—such as the 2010 Mavi Marmara incident—have drawn international condemnation and legal scrutiny.