Israeli naval forces have detained 18 Turkish citizens after intercepting a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla in international waters near the Greek island of Crete, according to Turkish representatives involved in the mission.
The incident occurred late Wednesday when Israeli forces surrounded and boarded vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of aid ships aiming to challenge Israel’s long-standing blockade on Gaza. The operation led to the detention of more than 170 activists from multiple countries.
The Turkish delegation reported that communications were disrupted during the interception, and at least 21 ships were seized. However, 17 vessels reportedly managed to continue into Greek territorial waters and avoided capture.
The flotilla, comprising around 100 boats and carrying approximately 1,000 activists, was transporting humanitarian supplies intended for Gaza, with the stated goal of opening a sea corridor for aid delivery.
The detained Turkish nationals include several activists identified by the delegation, among them Mustafa Enes Topal, Muhammed Ozdem, Ali Deniz, Yunus Kava, and others.
Israeli media had earlier indicated preparations for the interception as the convoy approached the eastern Mediterranean region. The Israeli government maintains its blockade on Gaza, in place since 2007, citing security concerns.
The situation comes amid ongoing international debate over humanitarian access to Gaza, where large portions of the population have been affected by conflict and displacement.
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