Global Sumud Flotilla Intercepted by Israeli Forces Amid Humanitarian Mission
A flotilla of 45 boats carrying humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters of the eastern Mediterranean on October 1, 2025, prompting widespread condemnation from various international organizations and governments advocating for the safety of those on board, reports 24brussels.
Following the interception, President Gustavo Petro of Colombia took to social media to raise awareness about the flotilla, stating, “Global and Latin American alert. Alert for the people of Colombia,” while sharing a video featuring Luna, one of the Colombian activists aboard the flotilla.
The Colombian Commission in the Global Movement to Palestine confirmed that Israeli forces intercepted the HIO ship within Palestinian waters. The organization highlighted the courage of two Colombian members, Manuela and Luna, who are participating in this humanitarian mission and urged continued attention to the plight of Palestine.
The Brazilian government expressed serious concerns regarding the incident, condemning the attack and holding Israel accountable for the safety of the activists aboard. Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira emphasized this responsibility during a recent parliamentary session.
Meanwhile, France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called for the protection of the flotilla participants, demanding that Israeli authorities ensure their safety and the right to consular assistance. The Italian General Confederation of Labour condemned the interception, labeling it a grave matter due to the presence of Italian citizens on board the vessels.
Activists in Italy have mobilized in response, with students occupying university faculties in cities like Padua and Rome, advocating for solidarity with the flotilla and urging an end to collaborations between Italian and Israeli universities. “For Gaza, for Palestine, for the ‘Sumud’ Flotilla. Let’s close the universities, the cities, the country. It is no longer the time to look the other way,” declared a representative from the student association of the University of Padua.
The Articulation of Social and Popular Movements towards ALBA (ALBA Movements) issued a statement holding the State of Israel accountable for the safety of those in the flotilla, which was positioned approximately 90 miles off Gaza’s coast. This incident occurs amidst rising tensions in the region, underscoring ongoing humanitarian concerns.
The flotilla reported detecting more than 20 unidentified vessels on its radar, just three nautical miles ahead. During a live broadcast conducted by Telesur, a member of the expedition, Néstor Prieto, indicated that the broadcast was abruptly cut off amid reports of the assault on the ship “Alba.”
