'Israel' threatens to sieze Handala humanitarian ship as Gaza starves

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen English
26 Jul 2025 19:15
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Activists aboard the Handala confirmed they were nearing the point where the previous flotilla, Madleen, had been intercepted, and said they expect to be stopped soon.

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The Freedom Flotilla ship Handala as it departs for Gaza, where it aims to break the maritime blockade at a port in Syracuse, Sicily in southern Italy on July 13, 2025 (AFP)

"Israel", in a consistent pattern, has threatened to sieze the Handala ship, which set sail to Gaza in an attempt to break the occupation's suffocating siege on the Strip and deliver vital aid to the starved Palestinian population.

According to Israeli media, Israeli officials threatened to sieze the boat "if it refuses to retreat."

Earlier today, activists aboard the Handala confirmed they were nearing the point where the previous flotilla, Madleen, had been intercepted, and said they expect to be stopped soon.

"Israel" has a history of blocking Freedom Flotillas from reaching Gaza. In May, a drone attack targeted the MV Conscience near Malta. In June, the ship Madleen was intercepted by Israeli naval forces, who detained 12 activists onboard.

The Handala, which departed from Gallipoli, Italy, is carrying 21 people, including six Americans.

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The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has reported attempts to sabotage the mission before departure and stressed that despite threats, the morale among crew members remains high. On Friday, the FFC REPORTED that multiple drones were observed flying above the Handala aid ship.

The development has raised renewed concerns about a possible Israeli or NATO interception of the humanitarian mission.

According to a statement issued on Telegram, the coalition noted that within a 45-minute window, 16 drones were spotted above the Handala, some in pairs and others flying directly over the vessel. This increased surveillance has intensified fears of a potential intervention.