Israel intensifies military preparations ahead of ‘Sumud Flotilla’ sailing toward Gaza

TEL AVIV: Israeli media reports that Israel has stepped up military preparations in anticipation of the arrival of the “Sumud Flotilla,” a global convoy of nearly 50 boats carrying more than 500 activists from 40 countries, set to sail toward Gaza.

The flotilla aims to break the 18-year blockade on Gaza and deliver food and medical supplies to the besieged enclave. Its expected arrival coincides with the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur.

According to reports, Israeli commandos have completed maritime drills, while the Health Ministry has declared an emergency in hospitals nationwide.

Organizers rejected Israeli proposals to reroute the aid via Ashkelon, Cyprus, or the Vatican.

The flotilla has already faced drone strikes that damaged nine vessels, while two earlier ships — Madeline and Hanzala — were intercepted in June and July.

Gaza is currently facing famine-like conditions, with acute shortages of food and medicine.

The Gaza Health Ministry reports that since Israel’s war began on October 7, 2023, more than 66,000 Palestinians have been killed, 168,000 wounded, and hundreds of thousands displaced.