Italian Reports: Flotilla Intercepted, Coast Guard on Board

Jerusalem, 1 October, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Several boats participating in the sumud flotilla have been stopped by the Israeli Navy, with members of the Coast Guard already having boarded the vessels.

According to Italian state television RAI, the IDF sent the following message to boats attempting to enter Israeli waters illegally: ‘You are entering an active war zone. If you attempt to force the naval blockade, we will intercept and confiscate your boats, and you will be held fully responsible for your actions”.

Participants in the flotilla have reportedly stated on social media that they do not recognise Israel’s authority, but have apparently put up no resistance.

Earlier, the Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he had received assurances from the State of Israel that there would be no violence, and that the flotilla members had given a similar commitment.

Tajani said that the Italians on board would probably be transferred to Ashdod, and then to the airport, where they would be expelled and flown back to Italy.