Israel begins intercepting Global Sumud Flotilla as convoy nears Gaza

The Israeli navy has begun intercepting vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla, activists and news agencies report, as the convoy of more than 40 civilian boats pressed closer to the Gaza coast to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge Israel’s naval blockade. Organisers say at least two ships — the Alma and the Sirius — have been approached or boarded and that several live camera feeds from the flotilla have gone offline, reports Al Jazeera. A statement from the Global Sumud Flotilla said its “vessels are being illegally intercepted,” adding that cameras had been disabled and that military personnel were on board some boats as organisers worked to confirm the safety and status of participants. The Israeli Foreign Ministry has released...