Aid Flotilla to Gaza Continues Despite Israeli Interception

A flotilla carrying aid to Gaza reported that dozens of its ships were still progressing towards the war-affected Palestinian territory despite an interception by Israeli naval forces.

The Global Sumud Flotilla – comprising around 45 vessels carrying politicians and activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg – departed Spain last month, aiming to challenge Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory, where the United Nations states famine has begun.

The Israeli navy intercepted the flotilla yesterday after issuing a warning against entering waters it claims fall under its blockade. Ms Thunberg’s ship was among those prevented from continuing.

The flotilla stated that most of its vessels were still moving forward as of early this morning, approaching the coast of the Gaza Strip despite the interruptions.

“30 boats still sailing strong on their way to gaza, just 46 nautical miles away, despite the ongoing aggression from the Israeli occupation navy,” the flotilla posted on X at 3:20 am local time (1:20 am Irish time).

At least eight Irish citizens were on board Global Sumud Flotilla vessels that were intercepted and detained by the israeli navy.

Those detained include Catríona Graham, Louise Heaney, Tadgh Hickey, Sarah Clancy, Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews, Diarmuid mac Dubhghlais, Thomas McCune, and Tara O’Grady, according to the Global Sumud Flotilla.

Senator Andrews was aboard the Spectre vessel, which was boarded by Israeli military personnel, his party confirmed.

🚨BREAKING🚨
Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews has been illegally detained by armed Israeli forces in international waters while on board the Global Sumud flotilla.

The flotilla is a peaceful humanitarian mission carrying food and aid to Gaza.@chrisandrews64 pic.twitter.com/qCLIv6EtdS

– Sinn Féin (@sinnfeinireland) October 1, 2025

“The Global Sumud Flotilla was tonight illegally intercepted and seized by armed Israeli forces in international waters off the coast of Egypt, less than 50 nautical miles from Gaza.

“The flotilla, including Senator Andrews’ boat, the Spectre, was violently assaulted by Israeli military forces, with participants taken by armed Israeli agents,” Sinn Féin said in a statement.

Irish coordinators of the flotilla have said t