Israel's navy intercepted an activist flotilla in international waters off Cyprus, halting an attempt to break the naval blockade of Gaza. The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of over 50 vessels, was intercepted in waters approximately 167 kilometers from Cyprus. Activists reported being boarded by Israeli troops, leading to the abrupt end of their livestream. The interception occurred in daylight, unlike previous operations. Israel maintains the blockade of Gaza, citing security concerns since Hamas took control in 2007. Critics argue that the blockade constitutes collective punishment. The flotilla aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. The organizers anticipated the activists would be taken to the port of Ashdod in Israel. Italy, Spain, and Indonesia have expressed concerns and demanded the release of their citizens. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Israeli actions as "piracy and banditry". Hamas called the interception a "full-fledged crime of piracy." The flotilla's actions follow previous attempts to reach Gaza, including one last month and a failed attempt last year involving Greta Thunberg. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with shortages of housing, food, and medicine for the approximately 2 million residents. The Israeli defense body claims sufficient aid is entering the territory.