Israel breaks international law by intercepting aid flotilla bound for Gaza

Gaza, Oct. 2 (Running Africa) - Dozens of humanitarian boats were intercepted in international waters in their attempt to deliver food, medical supplies and other essential items to the Gaza Strip, which has been besieged since October 2023.

In mid-October, at least 500 participants from 45 countries embarked on the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), described as one of the largest humanitarian efforts in recent years.

Those detained include Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, along with three other South Africans: Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, and Dr. Fatima Hendricks. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the arrests, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to secure their immediate release.

Israel claims it will deliver the aid itself, despite reports this year alleging that IDF soldiers were ordered to fire on unarmed civilians seeking relief at distribution sites. In August, a report published by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a UN-backed expert panel that assesses global food insecurity and malnutrition, officially declared famine in Gaz. The IPC forecast that by the end of September, nearly a third of Gaza's total population would face famine conditions.

Israel said the vessels were penetrating a fragile region it deemed a war zone next to Gaza.

More than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed and millions displaced as Israel presses ahead with its offensive in Gaza—an operation many, including the United Nations, have described as genocide. Dozens of nations have urged Israel to bring the incursion to an end.

Image: Eye On Palestine - Instagram

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was aboard the flotilla and has also been arrested. Critics have denounced Israel's interception of the vessel as illegal, calling it a direct violation of international law.