AssetID: 55706617
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla Near Cyprus
Caption: Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla Near Cyprus. Pro-Palestinian activists say Israeli forces have intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters west of Cyprus. Organisers from the Global Sumud Flotilla said more than 50 boats carrying humanitarian aid were being boarded by armed commandos roughly 250 nautical miles from Gaza. Video shared by activists appeared to show Israeli forces climbing aboard several vessels during the operation. Israel did not immediately comment on the latest interception, although its foreign ministry earlier described the flotilla as a deliberate provocation. Last month, Israeli authorities intercepted another convoy linked to the same flotilla near the Greek island of Crete, detaining around 175 activists. Organisers say the boats are attempting to deliver aid to Palestinians in Gaza Strip, where humanitarian conditions remain severe despite a ceasefire agreed months ago. Israel insists its maritime blockade of Gaza is lawful and has argued that aid is already entering the territory. However, the United Nations has warned that restrictions on supplies, fuel and equipment continue to hamper humanitarian operations in Gaza. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Current Affairs & Politics,Gaza,flotilla,Israel,Cyprus,Global Sumud Flotilla,Palestine,humanitarian aid,Gaza Strip,Middle East,conflict,blockade,protests,international waters
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