Israeli naval forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, stopping 40 of the 47 vessels involved. More than 200 activists were detained and transferred to the port of Ashdod, where they are set to be expelled. Among them are twenty-two Italians, including MEP Scuderi and Senator Croatti, who are already in the temporary identification center at the port, according to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. 

Israeli authorities stated that the operation effectively ended what they described as the “provocation of the Flotilla.” Israeli Foreign Minister Sa’ar confirmed that Greta Thunberg and the other activists are safe, posting a video of the Swedish activist’s detention. Repatriations are scheduled to begin on Friday.

The Israeli military maintains that, contrary to claims by some activists based on inaccurate tracking information, none of the flotilla vessels reached Israeli-controlled waters off the coast of Gaza. Activists, however, report that the Mikeno managed to get past the blockade and approached a few miles from Gaza before losing radio contact. Two other boats, the Fair Lady and the Marinette, are reportedly still en route to the Strip.

Several activists have accused Israeli forces of aggressive maneuvers, including ramming and the use of water cannons against the vessels. Hamas has condemned the Israeli operation, calling it an “act of piracy and terrorism.”