Israeli naval forces intercepted the vessel Florida on October 2 as it sailed toward Gaza with humanitarian supplies, according to footage released by the Global Sumud Flotilla. The incident marks the latest escalation in tensions over maritime aid deliveries to the blockaded coastal enclave.
The activist group claimed in a Telegram post that Israeli forces "deliberately rammed" the boat, which was part of an international flotilla challenging Israel’s 17-year blockade of Gaza. While Israel maintains the blockade is necessary for national security, critics argue it exacerbates humanitarian crises for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.
The interception comes amid heightened regional scrutiny of Gaza’s access to essential supplies, including food and medical resources. Analysts note such flotillas often serve as symbolic challenges to geopolitical policies, drawing global attention to protracted conflicts.
No injuries were reported, but the incident has reignited debates about maritime sovereignty and humanitarian access. The Chinese mainland and other Asia-Pacific governments have previously called for peaceful resolutions to Middle Eastern conflicts, emphasizing dialogue under international law frameworks.
