Global Sumud Flotilla

Rule Changes

All 430 activists deported; survivors allege systematic torture and sexual assault in Israeli custody

Eleven Western governments have now banned or sanctioned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. France acted on May 23; Poland had imposed a five-year ban two days earlier, citing Ben-Gvir as a threat to public order.

Updated May 24

Force in Play

Three voyages launched, all intercepted; planning further attempts

Israeli naval commandos boarded roughly 20 vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters off Cyprus on Monday. The convoy of more than 50 boats was the largest civilian sea-borne challenge to Israel's blockade since the 2010 Mavi Marmara raid that killed 10 Turkish activists.

Updated May 18