Overview

• Israeli forces intercepted the civilian convoy about 70 miles off Gaza overnight, boarding vessels and sending detainees to the port of Ashdod.
• The flotilla comprised roughly 44 boats carrying about 500 people and symbolic humanitarian supplies, according to multiple reports.
• Israeli authorities say detainees will be identified and expelled, offering immediate voluntary removal or short-term detention pending judicial repatriation.
• At least 30 Italian activists are among those held as schools and universities stage occupations, thousands are expected at a sit-in by the Colosseum, and unions have called a general strike for Friday.
• Israel released documents alleging links between some organizers and Hamas, claims contested by flotilla groups and legal analysts citing international maritime and humanitarian law.
• A separate medical-focused flotilla, including the 68-meter ship Conscience, is reported en route to regroup near Crete before attempting to approach Gaza.