Gaza flotilla seized by IDF towed to Ashdod, activists taken into custody

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Israeli forces intercepted the aid ship Handala in international waters near Gaza on Saturday, seizing the vessel and detaining its 21-member international crew. The flotilla, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aimed to break Israel’s blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The ship was taken to Ashdod port, where legal support was eventually granted to the activists, including lawmakers, journalists, and U.S. citizens. Israel said the move was part of enforcing its maritime blockade, while critics argue the interception was unlawful, the Times of Israel has reported. The incident comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza and growing international criticism of Israel’s aid restrictions.