‘Israel’ jams Handala’s GPS, warships minutes from intercepting aid ship
The Handala aid ship, currently en route to Gaza, is now surrounded by ‘Israeli’ warships and facing imminent interception, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. The group reports that ‘Israel’ has jammed the vessel’s GPS system, further escalating tensions as the ship sails in international waters.
Activists on board say the Handala remains a civilian mission carrying humanitarian supplies, including food, baby formula, and toys, for Palestinians in Gaza.
Read more: Following Freedom Flotilla Handala on its way to Gaza
In a message transmitted over radar, the crew issued a firm warning to the ‘Israeli’ navy: “We demand that you stand down, not attack a civilian ship which is sending food and baby formula to babies. Any attack on us is a violation of international law. Again, we are a civilian vessel. We are not a threat to you. Do not attack our vessel. Handala out.”
The ship is part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, an international effort to break the 'Israeli' blockade on Gaza. Organizers say the Handala has sailed closer to the coast than previous missions, including the Madleen, which was intercepted last month.
Earlier in the day, at least two fast-approaching vessels and nearly 20 drones were spotted in the area. The activists say they are prepared to go on a collective hunger strike if detained, in protest of what they call 'Israel’s' use of starvation as a weapon of war.
Despite the threat of confrontation, the crew remains resolute, saying they are determined to deliver the aid and stand in solidarity with Gaza’s besieged population.
Read more: Handala just hours from Gaza as drones and vessel close in
