IDF intercepts boat with pro-Palestinian activists
Illustrative photo: Israeli forces intercept vessel (Getty Images)
The Israel Defense Forces intercepted the vessel Handala, which attempted an unauthorized entry into Gaza's maritime zone. On board were pro-Palestinian activists and a small amount of humanitarian aid, according to The Times of Israel.
The vessel had intended to "break the blockade" of Gaza. The IDF towed the boat toward the port of Ashdod.
Handala departed from Sicily. This incident occurred just weeks after Israel intercepted another vessel that had made a high-profile attempt to reach Gaza.
According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized both missions, this time the ship carried 19 pro-Palestinian activists and two journalists from Al Jazeera.
The Israel Defense Forces did not issue an official comment on the incident. However, the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the interception. The ministry stated that everyone on board is safe.
"The vessel is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. All passengers are safe. Unauthorized attempts to breach the blockade are dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts," the ministry said.
התיעוד המלא והדרמטי: השתלטות שייטת 13 על הספינה חנד'לה שניסתה לפרוץ את המצור על עזה. מעליית הלוחמים על הספינה ממספר כלי שייט ועד ניתוק מצלמות האבטחה. בזמן הזה הפעילים יושבים בכיסאות עם אפודי הצלה ושרים pic.twitter.com/onKZibxxpa
— איתי בלומנטל Itay Blumental (@ItayBlumental) July 26, 2025
Background
Earlier in July, the Israeli Navy intercepted the vessel Madleen, which was headed toward Gaza and carried pro-Palestinian activists, including Greta Thunberg. After the ship was towed to Israeli shores, the passengers were deported to their home countries. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reportedly stated that Greta and her companions, whom he called mouthpieces for Hamas propaganda, should turn back because they would not be allowed to reach Gaza.
Meanwhile, on July 26, the IDF resumed airdrops of humanitarian aid over Gaza.
The shipments reportedly included seven pallets of flour, sugar, and canned food.
Humanitarian corridors would be established to ensure the safe passage of UN convoys carrying food and medicine.
