Türkiye condemns Israel’s ‘piracy’ against Gaza aid flotilla

Türkiye on Monday strongly condemned Israel’s military intervention against the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, describing the operation in international waters as “a new act of piracy.”

Ankara demands release of activists

In a written statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said Israeli forces intervened against the flotilla, which included citizens from nearly 40 countries. “We condemn the intervention carried out by Israeli forces in international waters against the Global Sumud Flotilla, which constitutes a new act of piracy,” the ministry said. It added that Israel’s “attacks and intimidation policies” will not prevent international solidarity with the Palestinian people. Ankara called on Israel to immediately halt the intervention and unconditionally release all detained participants. Turkish authorities are taking necessary steps to ensure the safe return of Turkish citizens aboard the flotilla and are coordinating closely with other countries.

Flotilla attacked in international waters

The Israeli army attacked the flotilla on Monday in international waters. Live broadcasts showed Israeli naval forces intercepting the vessels one by one. The Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported that detained activists were being transferred to a navy ship described as a “floating prison” before being taken to the port of Ashdod. The Global Sumud Flotilla has demanded “safe passage” for its humanitarian mission, accusing Israel of “illegal acts of piracy” aimed at maintaining a “genocidal siege” on Gaza. Türkiye has consistently supported civilian initiatives to break the Gaza blockade and has called on the international community to ensure safe passage for humanitarian missions.