Türkiye condemns Israeli interception of Gaza-bound aid flotilla

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye has strongly condemned the reported Israeli interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, describing the operation as taking place in international waters and constituting what it called a “new act of piracy”.

The flotilla, organised to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza, included participants from around 40 countries, according to the statement. Ankara said Israel’s actions would not deter international efforts aimed at supporting the Palestinian population or broader global solidarity initiatives.

“The attacks and intimidation policies pursued by Israel will not prevent the international community’s pursuit of justice or its solidarity with the Palestinian people,” the ministry said.

Türkiye demanded the immediate cessation of the operation and the unconditional release of all detained participants. It also confirmed that efforts were underway to ensure the safe return of Turkish nationals involved, in coordination with other countries.

The ministry urged the international community to take a unified and decisive stance against what it described as unlawful Israeli actions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye said it is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with relevant international partners.

Israeli naval forces on May 18 began intercepting several vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was attempting to break the Gaza blockade.

Organisers said more than 50 boats departed from Marmaris last week, carrying around 500 activists from 45 countries. Livestreams showed activists wearing life jackets and raising their hands as Israeli troops boarded ships, before the feed was cut.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry urged the flotilla to “change course and turn back immediately,” calling it a provocation and questioning the humanitarian purpose of the mission. The military has not provided detailed comments on the operation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev