Flagrant violation of international law: Pakistan condemns interception of Global Sumud Flotilla

Pakistan strongly condemned on Thursday the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla and said that it was another “flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law by Israel”.

In a statement issued today, the Foreign Office (FO) said that this reprehensible act is part of Israel’s ongoing pattern of aggression and its illegal blockade of Gaza, which has caused immense human suffering and deprivation for over two million Palestinians.

“The deliberate obstruction of humanitarian relief is a grave breach of Israel’s obligations as the occupying power under the Fourth Geneva Convention.”

On Wednesday, Israeli naval forces intercepted Global Sumud Flotilla – involving around 45 vessels carrying politicians and activists including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg – left Spain last month, aiming to break Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory, where the UN says famine has set in.

“Around 8:30 pm Gaza time (1730 GMT), several vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including the Alma, Sirius and Adara, were illegally intercepted and boarded by Israeli occupation forces in international waters,” the flotilla said.

“Beyond the confirmed interceptions, live streams and communications with several other vessels have been lost,” the statement added.

Gaza aid flotilla presses journey, accuses Israel of ‘intimidation’

Meanwhile, the FO reiterated “its call for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire across all Occupied Palestinian Territories; the lifting of the illegal blockade of Gaza; unfettered access and provision of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people; immediate release of all humanitarian workers and activists onboard the flotilla; full respect for international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law; and accountability for Israel’s repeated violations of international law.”

The statement reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support and solidarity with the Palestinian people.

The flotilla is the most high-profile symbol of opposition to Israel’s blockade of Gaza.

Its progress across the Mediterranean Sea garnered international attention as nations including Turkiye, Spain and Italy sent boats or drones in case their nationals required assistance, even as it triggered repeated warnings from Israel to turn back.