Israeli Naval Forces Raid Global Sumud Flotilla, Sparking Global Outrage
Israeli naval forces have sparked global outrage after raiding the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international mission aiming to deliver aid to Gaza. The operation has resulted in over 450 detainees and an indefinite hunger strike by activists.
The flotilla, comprising nearly 44 vessels, was intercepted in international waters. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the raid, calling it a response to a 'provocation' on Yom Kippur. However, the action has drawn widespread criticism. Türkiye condemned it as 'terrorism', while Italy's largest labor union called for a nationwide strike in solidarity. Colombia even expelled Israeli diplomats in protest.
The raid highlights growing international pressure on Israel over its campaign in Gaza. Since Hamas' incursion, Israel's retaliatory assault has claimed over 66,000 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Protests have erupted in cities worldwide, including Istanbul, Rome, Paris, and Barcelona, with some turning violent.
Inside Israel, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir confronted detainees, labeling them 'terrorists'. Hundreds of police officers were deployed to process the detainees. Meanwhile, the activists have begun refusing food, with over 100 international activists launching an indefinite hunger strike. Eleven Greek activists have joined this strike, protesting their 'illegal detention by the Israeli authorities'.
Only one yacht, the Marinette, remained at sea following the raid. The flotilla's mission was to pierce Israel's 17-year blockade of Gaza and draw global attention to the humanitarian crisis there. The raid and its aftermath have further strained Israel's relations with the international community, with protests and diplomatic actions continuing worldwide.
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