On Tuesday, Israel’s military announced its preparedness to “protect” the nation’s maritime territory following the departure of a vessel organized by an international activist coalition that intends to deliver aid to Gaza.
A Freedom Flotilla Coalition vessel set sail from Sicily on Sunday, transporting approximately a dozen individuals, including environmental activist Greta Thunberg.
Israel faces mounting international scrutiny regarding the severe humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory; with the United Nations issuing a warning in May that the entire population is at risk of famine.
“The Israeli military stands ready to protect the citizens of the State of Israel across all fronts, including the north, south, center, and maritime areas,” stated army spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin.
“The navy is engaged around the clock to safeguard Israel’s maritime territory and coastal borders,” he stated during a televised press conference.
“We are ready for this situation as well,” he stated when asked about the Freedom Flotilla vessel, opting not to elaborate further.
“Recent years have provided us with valuable experience, and we are prepared to respond accordingly.”
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, established in 2010, represents a non-violent international initiative aimed at supporting Palestinians. This movement merges humanitarian assistance with political activism, explicitly targeting the blockade imposed on Gaza.
The “Madleen,” a modest sailboat, is said to be transporting an assortment of provisions, including fruit juices, milk, rice, tinned food, and protein bars.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition announced on X on Tuesday, “Together, we can open a people’s sea corridor to Gaza.”
In early May, the “Conscience,” a ship part of the Freedom Flotilla, sustained damage while navigating international waters near Malta en route to Gaza.
Activists aboard have raised suspicions of an Israeli drone attack as the cause of the incident.
Israel has recently lifted a blockade that had been in place for over two months on the Palestinian territory, which has been severely affected by conflict. However, the aid community is calling for an increase in the volume and speed of food deliveries to the region.
