Israel Detains 175 Activists After Seizing Aid Boats
Israeli forces stopped 22 aid boats near the Greek island of Crete. The boats were in international waters at the time.
The boats were carrying aid meant for Gaza. Israel keeps a blockade around Gaza's coast.
After stopping the boats Israeli forces detained 175 activists and crew members. At least 6 Australian activists were among those detained.
Just 2 of the 14 Australians on board are still in contact. Security camera footage showed Israeli navy personnel boarding the vessels.
The boarding happened in international waters. Activists said the interception was not legal because of its location.
Turkey's foreign ministry called the seizure an act of piracy. Israel called those on board attention-seeking agitators.
Klear Note — Israel maintains a naval blockade around Gaza to control what enters. Aid boats regularly attempt to break through to deliver supplies to Gaza.
Key Terms 4
- international waters Ocean areas not owned or controlled by any country
- blockade When a military stops ships from entering or leaving an area
- flotilla A group of boats traveling together for a shared purpose
- detained Held by authorities and not free to leave