• Israeli forces intercepted the Handala aid ship in international waters, detaining 21 activists and journalists.
• The vessel was carrying humanitarian supplies including baby formula, food, and medicine bound for Gaza.
• The Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the interception as an act of "naval piracy" and a violation of international law.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported on Saturday that the Handala aid ship, which departed from Italy carrying humanitarian supplies, was intercepted by Israeli forces approximately 40 nautical miles from Gaza. The vessel was carrying 21 unarmed civilians, including lawmakers and activists, when it was stormed by Israeli troops, who cut communications during the raid, according to AA and Le Monde.

As the Handala approached Gaza's coast, Israeli officials had previously warned it to change course or face interception. The Israeli military claimed that attempts to breach its blockade were unlawful, as stated through a press release and reports by AA and India Times.

The activists on board issued a distress call before the vessel was boarded, detailing their mission to deliver essential aid amid rising humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where the population faces severe shortages due to the blockade. This interception was characterized by Gaza's media as a "blatant act of aggression" and a violation of international maritime law, according to AA and India Times.

The coalition that operates the Handala stated that the ship was carrying non-military cargo intended for distribution to civilians. The Israeli government announced it would transport the intercepted vessel to Ashdod Port, where the detained individuals would face deportation, as reported by South China Morning Post and AA.