Türkiye: Israel’s Intervention Against the Global Sumud Flotilla “An Act of Piracy”

The statement underlined that Israel’s attack on the flotilla, which aimed to draw attention to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, constituted a clear violation of the principle of freedom of navigation in international waters. Türkiye called on the international community to adopt a unified stance against what it described as Israel’s unlawful actions.

The Ministry also noted that all necessary initiatives are being carried out in coordination with relevant countries regarding the situation of Turkish citizens and other passengers on board the flotilla.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held talks with his Spanish counterpart, during which the unlawful intervention against the Global Sumud Flotilla was discussed.

Mission and Timeline of the Global Sumud Flotilla

The Global Sumud Flotilla’s 2026 Spring Mission, aimed at breaking the blockade on Gaza and delivering vital humanitarian aid, set sail from Barcelona, Spain, on April 12.

Following additional participation in Sicily, Italy, more than 60 vessels departed again into the Mediterranean on April 26. However, on the night of April 29, Israeli forces began seizing boats carrying activists in international waters off the coast of Crete.

According to flotilla officials, the vessels carried 345 participants from 39 different countries, including Turkish nationals. Officials reported that contact had been lost with dozens of boats, and no clear information is currently available regarding the fate of the activists.

It was also recalled that during the flotilla’s first attempt in September 2025, Israeli forces had similarly intervened in international waters in the Mediterranean, detaining activists and seizing vessels.