Israel intercepts Global Sumud flotilla, escorts ships to its port

Israeli forces intercepted several vessels from the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza and are escorting them to an Israeli port, the foreign ministry said early Thursday.

The ministry added that passengers, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, are safe and in good health.

Earlier, Israeli forces had ordered the flotilla to turn back, but mission organizers said they would “stand firm” and continue their attempt to break the blockade.

The flotilla comprises dozens of ships carrying humanitarian aid and hundreds of activists seeking to reach Gaza’s shores.