Türkiye has strongly condemned Israel after Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian aid convoy heading toward Gaza Strip. According to Turkish officials, activists aboard the flotilla were subjected to verbal and physical violence during the operation. The convoy was stopped by Israeli forces while travelling in international waters, raising criticism from several groups and governments. In a strongly worded statement, Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry accused the Israeli government of showing what it described as a “violent and barbaric mentality.” The statement specifically criticised members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, linking the flotilla interception to the ongoing war in Gaza. Turkish officials said Ankara is now working with other countries to secure the immediate and safe release of Turkish citizens and other activists detained during the incident. Diplomats are reportedly in contact with international partners to monitor the situation closely. The Global Sumud Flotilla was carrying humanitarian aid and activists supporting Palestinians in Gaza. Organisers say the mission aimed to challenge restrictions on aid deliveries and draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in the territory. Israel has defended previous interceptions of flotillas heading toward Gaza by arguing that naval restrictions are necessary for security reasons. However, critics say stopping aid ships in international waters violates international norms and worsens the suffering of civilians in Gaza. The latest incident has further increased tensions between Türkiye and Israel, whose relations have already been strained by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Turkish leaders have repeatedly criticised Israeli military operations and called for stronger international action to protect civilians. The situation is likely to increase international debate over humanitarian access to Gaza and the treatment of activists attempting to deliver aid to the territory.