BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — A flotilla carrying activists seeking to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza was on alert after it was approached by military vessels as it sailed Wednesday closer to the besieged Palestinian territory . The activists said they expect Israeli authorities to intercept them , as has happened in past flotilla attempts to reach Gaza.

Spain and Italy had sent navy ships to escort the flotilla for a part of the journey, but urged activists to turn back and avoid confrontation with Israel.

On Wednesday, the Global Sumud Flotilla said two of its vessels were harassed by two Israeli warships overnight, jamming their communications but stopping short of intercepting them.

Here's what to know about the flotilla.

The flotilla's goal

Organizers say about 50 small vessels

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