Another 'Hamas flotilla' heading to Gaza - preparations underway

Israeli security forces have accelerated preparations to intercept a new flotilla expected to depart from Sicily in mid-October aiming to break the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. According to Channel 12, the flotilla consists of several vessels carrying dozens of anti-Israel activists. The IDF intends to prevent any breach, and may deploy Shayetet 13 commandos for interception.

Israeli security forces have accelerated preparations to intercept a new 'Hamas flotilla' reportedly heading to Gaza. According to Channel 12, the flotilla is expected to depart from Sicily in mid-October, with participants aiming to break the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. Israel currently assesses this as a small flotilla of several vessels with dozens of anti-Israel activists, though additional ships and participants may join later. The issue was discussed at recent security meetings, after which the IDF began preliminary preparations for its possible arrival. As before, the military intends to prevent any vessel from reaching the Gaza Strip. In case of an attempted breach, Shayetet 13 commandos may be deployed for interception. Earlier, Kursor reported that 58 vessels linked to the IHH flotilla—the Turkish organization involved in the 2010 Mavi Marmara flotilla—departed from Turkish ports toward Gaza. Some of these vessels attempted to approach Gaza about two weeks ago but returned to Turkey after warnings from the Israeli Navy. Additionally, a new pro-Palestinian flotilla called 'Sumud' was presented in Istanbul, with organizers planning to send numerous vessels carrying activists from various countries to Gaza.