Athens
Organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla say their convoy of more than 50 boats carrying pro-Palestinian activists toward Gaza was surrounded by Israeli military vessels while off the coast of Greece near Crete. The group claimed communications with several boats were lost and that Israeli forces used lasers and weapons while ordering passengers to comply. They also said an SOS was issued amid alleged jamming of communications. Israel has not confirmed the claims. The flotilla, which departed from ports in France, Spain, and Italy, aims to challenge the long-standing blockade on the Gaza Strip. Similar past attempts have resulted in interceptions and detentions by Israeli naval forces.