Israeli troops intercepted vessels from a flotilla attempting to breach the naval blockade of Gaza on May 18, 2026. The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying activists and humanitarian aid, departed from Marmaris, Turkey, on May 14, aiming to challenge the Israeli blockade. Israeli naval forces stopped the vessels, detaining activists and seizing the aid. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over the blockade, which Israel says is necessary for security, while critics call it collective punishment. The flotilla organizers condemned the interception, calling it a violation of international law. No injuries were reported.
