Freedom Flotilla Detained by Israel on International Waters

The Israeli military intercepted the Freedom Flotilla on Sunday, on international waters, while it was trying to reach Gaza with much-needed humanitarian aid.

The Israeli forces said it was a short operation free of any casualties. The boat has been seized by Israel and is currently en route to Ashdod port. 

Members of the Freedom Flotilla issued an SOS video-message from within the ship, Marianne, in which they warn that the crew has been unlawfully attacked by the Israeli army, calling upon activists and supporters to stay alert over their fate. 

The crew of the Freedom Flotilla was made up of activists and international politicians.​

 

Joel Opperdoes, captain of Marianne: 'If you see this video, @IDFSpokesperson attacked us' https://t.co/gMeK9WI1EP

— Freedom Flotilla (@GazaFFlotilla) junio 29, 2015

#SOSFreedomFlotilla Charlie Andreasson: "If you see this video, call to your embassis and support us" https://t.co/LWHJSgFILc

— Freedom Flotilla (@GazaFFlotilla) junio 29, 2015

Last Friday some 70 activists boarded three ships to Gaza to bring relief to those living in “the world's largest open air prison,” said the coalition. Activists from over 20 countries set sail for the Gaza Strip, where they attempted to break Israel's siege of the Palestinian territory.

The ships set sail under the banner Freedom Flotilla III, just five years after a similar mission ended in bloodshed and political turmoil, when Israeli troops boarded one of the ships as they neared the Gaza coast. Nine activists were killed and dozens injured in the raid.