On the way to Gaza: Israeli Navy took over flotilla

Navy warriors went up on Shabbos morning to the ship "Estelle", which sought to break the naval blockade on the Gaza Strip. Boarding the ship was in accordance with the decision of the political leadership and international law – which came after exhausting all direct approaches to the ship, as well as through diplomatic channels.

The ship had clarified that they would not cooperate and comply with the invitation to arrive at the port of Ashdod, it was decided to take over the ship and bring it to the port of Ashdod.

The force acted following the plan and took all necessary steps to ensure the safety of the soldiers and passengers on board. The takeover was accomplished without the use of force.

Safety of passengers was tested, and they were offered food and drink. With the arrival of the ship to the port of Ashdod passengers were transferred to police officials and the Immigration authority at the Ministry of the Interior.

The Chief of Staff directed the Judge Advocate General, Major General Danny Efroni, to consider taking legal action against the flotilla activists, who were arrested by the navy.

The IDF spokesman wishes to emphasize that any organization or country wishing to reach Gaza or transfer humanitarian aid can do so legally and orderly at any time through the land crossings in coordination with the Israeli authorities.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the IDF action to maintain the naval blockade on the Gaza Strip in accordance with international law. Netanyahu said "The people who were on the boat know there is no humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and their only goal is to create a provocation and slandering the name of Israel. If human rights were really important to those activists, they would sail to Syria. We will continue to protect our borders with power and determination."

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!