Overview

• The convoy of about 50 civilian vessels reported drone swarms near Greek waters using explosive and incendiary devices, chemical irritants and communications jamming.
• Italy and Spain deployed naval ships to assist or rescue participants if needed, with officials describing the deployments as protection of their citizens.
• Israel said it will stop the flotilla from reaching Gaza and proposed offloading aid at Ashkelon or via Cyprus, while presenting alleged ties between some organizers and Hamas.
• Flotilla organizers rejected Israel’s offloading proposals, arguing the plan would not break the blockade or ensure safe delivery to Palestinians.
• UN human rights chief Volker Türk called for an independent investigation and the European Commission urged respect for freedom of navigation, as high-profile activists including Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela take part.