Israeli forces intercepted the Handala, a vessel carrying activists and humanitarian aid, near the Ashdod port on July 27, 2025. The interception took place around midnight in international waters, and communication with those on board was subsequently lost. The ship was attempting to deliver much-needed supplies to Gaza, which is currently experiencing a severe hunger crisis compounded by an Israeli naval blockade. This incident marks the third occurrence this year where Israel has stopped vessels challenging this blockade.
The Handala was transporting notable passengers, including Australian journalist Tania Safi and human rights activist Robert Martin, both aboard the Freedom Flotilla Coalition vessel. The Israeli military redirected the ship to Ashdod, effectively preventing it from reaching Gaza’s shores. The ongoing blockade has sparked global outrage due to the escalating starvation and humanitarian challenges faced by Gaza’s population.
In response to international pressure regarding the worsening crisis, Israel has recently declared daily military pauses in specific areas of Gaza to facilitate the flow of aid. However, despite these pauses, tensions remain high and deliveries by sea continue to be blocked.
The current situation highlights the complexity and urgency of providing humanitarian assistance to Gaza, given the ongoing conflict and restrictive measures in place.
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