Activists say Israel has intercepted their Gaza aid flotilla near Crete

Boats carrying activists and humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza reposition in the port during a symbolic send-off as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Activists sailing on dozens of boats attempting to break Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip to deliver aid say Israeli forces intercepted them, detaining the crews while the flotilla was sailing near the Greek island of Crete.

(Image credit: Joan Mateu Parra)