Israel will not allow vessels to break through the Gaza blockade, RBC reports.
If the Israeli military see a threat to their lives they will react
correspondingly, which may result in deaths, Associated Press reports.
Another attempt to enter Gaza is expected at the end of June. Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanded that the UN stop vessels
heading towards Gaza in April 2011. He filed a letter to UN Secretary
general Ban Ki-moon, calling it a provocation, since it is possible to
send humanitarian aid via land.
Six vessels of the Freedom Flotilla led by the Mavi Marmana flagship
were heading to Gaza on May 31, 2010, to provide humanitarian aid. The
aid was organized by the Turkish non-governmental organization IHH
Humanitarian Relief Foundation. The Israeli military attacked the
flagship in neutral waters. 9 members of the ship's crew died. Several
Israeli servicemen were injured. The flotilla was arrested by Israel
and taken to its port.
The actions were condemned by many states and the UN. Turkish
President Abdullah Gul said that relations with Israel had changed
once and for all.
Israel announced in January 2011 that its actions had not violated
international law.
