Israel calls flotilla a 'provocation', asks to change course to avoid ‘violation’
Israel has called the Gaza aid flotilla a "provocation" and urged it to change course, warning that entering Gaza's waters would constitute a violation of its blockade.
Israel's U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon posted on X: *"We will not allow any PR stunt approaching an active war zone to violate our sovereignty. Those who tried to enter Israeli territory illegally will be deported immediately after Yom Kippur in Israel. Israel has repeatedly offered ways to peacefully deliver aid to Gaza, but this flotilla is not interested in aid – only provocation."*
The Israeli Foreign Ministry also released a post on X stating: "The sole purpose of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla is provocation." The post included a video of an Israeli navy officer addressing the flotilla.
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In the video, the officer can be heard saying: "This is the Israeli navy. You are approaching a blockaded zone. If you wish to deliver aid to Gaza, you may do so through the established channels. Please change your course toward the port of Ashdod where the aid will undergo a security inspection and then be transferred into the Gaza Strip."
Israel says it has asked the flotilla to change course
According to Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexander Cornwell, the navy has reached out to the flotilla, informing participants that they are approaching an active combat zone and violating a lawful naval blockade.
The ministry added that Israel has reiterated its offer to transfer aid peacefully through safe channels. The Israeli military spokesperson referred queries to the Foreign Ministry.
Earlier on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar posted on X: "From all over, there are calls for this Hamas-Sumud provocation to stop. We join these calls and reiterate: It is not too late. Please transfer any aid you might have peacefully through the Port of Cyprus, the Ashkelon Marina, or any other port in the region into Gaza."
Israeli navy warned flotilla, say Tunisian organizers
Tunisian organizers and participants said the Israeli navy radioed all captains of the flotilla, warning them that continuing toward Gaza's shores and attempting to "break the blockade" would be considered a violation. They were told such actions would expose participants to arrest and treatment in accordance with Israeli law.
Netanyahu's wider political gamble
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's support for Donald Trump's Gaza plan is seen as a political gamble. Analysts suggest the move may help him win back estranged allies abroad and repair his political base at home. However, it also risks clashes with coalition partners opposed to any hint of a Palestinian state.
By aligning himself with Trump, Netanyahu has framed the plan as a joint effort that advances his government's goals while shifting international criticism of the war onto Hamas, which he said must now choose between accepting the proposal or facing continued siege.
