Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened security discussions on Sunday as a Turkish-led convoy of vessels carrying pro-Palestinian activists approaches Gaza waters, seeking to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade.
The convoy includes 53 ships transporting approximately 400 activists and is anticipated to reach Israeli territorial waters in under 48 hours. The fleet launched from Turkey as the second mission of the Global Sumud Flotilla’s efforts to breach the Gaza blockade.
Weather conditions forced the convoy to make a temporary stop at a Greek island before continuing its journey. According to the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu convened Israel’s security cabinet in preparation for the flotilla’s expected arrival.
This mission represents the second attempt by the Global Sumud flotilla, following an earlier effort in April when Israeli naval forces intercepted 20 vessels.
Israeli authorities have expressed particular concern about the participation of the Turkish IHH organization, which describes itself as providing humanitarian aid but has been classified by Israel as a terrorist entity due to its connections with Hamas. Participants in the current flotilla have links to IHH and associated organizations.
The IHH organization previously helped coordinate the 2010 Mavi Marmara flotilla, during which pro-Palestinian demonstrators attempted to break through Gaza’s naval blockade. When Israeli naval forces boarded the vessel, Shayetet 13 special forces faced armed resistance, with Israeli personnel sustaining injuries from attacks involving metal bars, knives, and other weapons.
The flotilla’s arrival coincides with ongoing delays in implementing the October 2025 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which has stalled before entering its second phase. The primary obstacle involves Hamas’s required disarmament under the agreement, which the organization has refused to accept.
The American-supported 20-point Gaza proposal outlined terms for an immediate ceasefire, the return of all Israeli hostages, expanded humanitarian assistance, and a gradual Israeli military withdrawal tied to security guarantees and Hamas disarmament.
The plan also established provisions for internationally monitored reconstruction and governance structures for Gaza, specifically excluding Hamas from future leadership roles and establishing long-term discussions focused on regional stability and eventual Palestinian self-rule.
