While video footage appears to show gunfire-like activity, the type of weaponry used remains unverified. Israel, however, has stated that no lethal force was deployed and that there were no casualties in the operation.
Flotilla representatives claim that more than 50 vessels were seized in the eastern Mediterranean and that over 428 participants were arrested. Israel, meanwhile, says around 430 individuals were detained and are being transferred back to the country.
According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, “non-lethal measures” were used after repeated warnings were issued to the vessels. Participants, however, argue that such actions in international waters are unlawful.
The incident has further heightened regional tensions. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned the operation and urged international intervention.
Israel has previously intercepted similar attempts to reach Gaza. The latest development is expected to intensify diplomatic pressure surrounding the ongoing Gaza crisis.