Israel threatens Global Sumud Flotilla again

Israel on Tuesday said that if the Global Sumud Flotilla "continues to reject Israel’s peaceful proposal, Israel will take the necessary measures to prevent its entry into the combat zone and to stop any violation of a lawful naval blockade.”

Earlier this week, Israel’s Foreign Ministry had warned the vessels against approaching Gaza’s coast, saying it should transfer the aid to Ashkelon port.

The flotilla aims to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza and deliver aid to the besieged enclave. 

Activists aboard the flotilla have rejected Israel’s request that all humanitarian aid be handed over to its authorities for “prompt delivery” into Gaza.

Responding to Israel’s proposal to take control of the aid, German activist and GSF organiser Sumeyra Akdeniz-Ordu said: “It’s like a joke.”

Activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) have rejected Israeli accusations that the flotilla’s mission is “to serve Hamas,” as well as Israel’s request that all humanitarian aid be handed over to its authorities for “prompt delivery” into Gaza.

“This accusation is… pic.twitter.com/ftJQLAXWKq

— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) September 23, 2025