Iran Condemns Israeli Attack on Humanitarian Ship as Maritime Piracy and Violation of International Law
Tehran, The Gulf Observer: Iran’s Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned the recent Israeli attack on the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s humanitarian ship, Handala, describing the assault as “maritime piracy” and a flagrant breach of international law.
In a statement issued late Sunday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ismaeil Baqaei denounced the raid as part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to enforce its “genocidal policy in occupied Palestine,” exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and maintain the “cruel and inhumane blockade” that has led to widespread famine and starvation among the civilian population.
“The Israeli regime’s assault on the Handala ship, following a similar attack on the Madeleine in June, represents a blatant violation of international legal principles and must be unequivocally condemned by all governments and international organizations,” Baqaei asserted.
The Handala, a humanitarian vessel carrying aid to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters late Saturday. According to Iranian officials, 21 activists aboard were forcibly taken by Israeli forces. This marks the third such incident involving vessels from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition since May.
Baqaei reiterated Iran’s call for the immediate lifting of the siege on Gaza and stressed the necessity of allowing unhindered and sufficient humanitarian aid to reach the enclave. He emphasized that all aid distribution must occur under the supervision of internationally recognized mechanisms to ensure transparency and fairness.
The incident has sparked renewed criticism of Israel’s blockade policies and raised concerns among international human rights organizations over the safety of humanitarian missions operating in support of Gaza’s civilian population.
