**Title: Israeli Military Detains Activists in Gaza Flotilla Interception**

The Israeli military intercepted a flotilla of nine boats attempting to breach Israel's naval blockade of Gaza early Wednesday morning. The operation took place in the Mediterranean Sea and resulted in the detention of numerous activists, including six Canadians, according to the flotilla organizers and the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry reported that 145 activists from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and Thousand Madleens to Gaza were in good health. They are being transported to shore in Israel for processing and are expected to be deported. This interception follows a previous incident last week, where nearly 450 activists, including European lawmakers and climate activist Greta Thunberg, were also detained while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

While most activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla have been deported, six remain in custody in Israel, according to their legal representatives. The organizers of the latest flotilla condemned the detentions as "arbitrary and unlawful." The group included doctors, politicians, and lawmakers from various countries, including Turkey, Denmark, and France. Notably, two Israeli citizens were also aboard the largest vessel, named the Conscience.

The flotilla was carrying food and medical supplies intended for hospitals in Gaza. The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated, "Another futile attempt to breach the legal naval blockade and enter a combat zone ended in nothing." The interception occurred approximately 120 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza, with live broadcasts capturing the moment Israeli troops boarded the vessels. Activists reported that an Israeli helicopter was also present during the operation, but no injuries were reported.

Turkey's Foreign Ministry condemned the interception, labeling it an "act of piracy" and a serious violation of international law. The ministry accused Israel of escalating tensions and undermining peace efforts. Turkey is working diplomatically to secure the release of its citizens and is coordinating with other nations regarding the status of the detained activists.

The recent flotilla interceptions have drawn widespread condemnation and sparked protests in several major cities, including a one-day strike in Italy. Some deported activists have alleged mistreatment by Israeli guards, a claim that Israel has denied.

These flotilla attempts come amid increasing criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza, where ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties. The war, which began after a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, has led to the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry's figures, which do not distinguish between civilians and militants, are considered by experts to be the most reliable estimates.

Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza since Hamas took control of the territory in 2007, citing security concerns. Critics argue that the blockade constitutes collective punishment. Following the outbreak of war, Israel tightened the blockade but later eased restrictions under U.S. pressure. Activists involved in the flotilla efforts aim to establish a humanitarian corridor by sea, as aid reaching Gaza by land has been severely limited. They have vowed to continue their attempts to break the blockade.