Flotilla ship Mikeno defies Israeli blockade
GAZA: In a powerful breakthrough, the Mikeno, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, has become the first civilian ship to breach Israel’s blockade and enter Gaza’s territorial waters, according to flotilla trackers on Thursday.
Despite Israeli forces intercepting 14 other boats carrying foreign activists and humanitarian aid, organizers confirmed that 23 vessels are still en route to the besieged enclave.
The Mikeno endured over 20 interceptions before successfully sailing into Palestinian waters, now positioned just 9 nautical miles from Gaza.Flotilla ship Mikeno
The Global Sumud Flotilla ship Mikeno , consisting of more than 40 boats and 500 participants including parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists, aims to deliver vital food and medical aid while protesting Israel’s blockade.
Videos shared on Telegram show activists claiming they were abducted and taken to Israel against their will, stressing the flotilla’s peaceful humanitarian mission.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated that some flotilla boats were “safely stopped” and passengers were transferred to Israeli ports, insisting “Greta and her friends are safe and healthy.”
International Outrage Grows
The flotilla has sparked global backlash, with Turkey, Spain, and Italy deploying vessels and drones to safeguard their citizens.
Turkey labeled Israel’s actions “an act of terror,” while Istanbul prosecutors launched investigations into the detention of 24 Turkish nationals.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro went further, ordering the expulsion of Israel’s entire diplomatic mission after two Colombians were detained aboard the flotilla.
