A screengrab from a live footage video shows crew of a Gaza-bound vessel, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, put their hands up as they are intercepted by Israeli security forces, October 1, 2025. (Photo: Global Sumud Flotilla/REUTERS)

The flotilla, called the Global Sumud Flotilla, consisted of 47 civilian boats carrying more than 500 international activists.

The Israeli military said its forces boarded at least three ships, restrained the activists, and transferred them to navy vessels for transport to Israeli ports. The passengers will be deported to their home countries.

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning the interception, calling it a “terrorist act.” It said Israel’s actions were a serious violation of international law which endangered the lives of civilians.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said his Israeli counterpart had assured him that Israeli forces would not use violence against activists on the flotilla.