Overview

• Convoy vessels reported close approaches by Israeli craft, intermittent communications disruptions and a submarine sighting while sailing roughly 120–145 nautical miles from Gaza.
• Israeli forces readied an interdiction using naval commandos from Shayetet 13 with plans to transfer people to a military ship and tow boats to Ashdod, with non‑lethal force emphasized in briefings.
• Organizers and legal groups insist the voyage in international waters is lawful and nonviolent, warning that any attack would violate international law.
• Israeli authorities published documents they say link Hamas to funding and supporting the flotilla, claims the organizers reject pending independent verification.
• Italy’s Interior Ministry tightened police leave as unions threatened national strikes and large protests were prepared in case of a forceful stop, while the Alpino offered safe transfer without proceeding beyond its limit.