Israel stops Gaza-bound aid ship

29/09/10 07:30 CET

world news

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The latest attempt to break Israel’s Gaza Strip blockade has ended in a police station, with the arrest of ten pro-Palestinian activists.

The group was taken to Ashdod under heavy security but roundly encouraged by supporters who have also set their sights on seeing an end to what they call “the occupation”.

They set sail from Northern Cyprus on Sunday, intent on highlighting the plight of the 1.5 million Palestinians who live in the territory.

According to the Israeli military, they encountered no resistance as they took control of the vessel, the Irene, and escorted it to shore.

The incident comes four months after a deadly Israeli raid on an international flotilla, in which nine Turkish activists were killed in clashes with naval commandos.

The passengers on board, including a former Israeli fighter pilot, had said they wanted to show that not all Jews support the blockade.

More about: Gaza flotilla raid, Israel, Mideast

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Mali: Rebel groups agree to creation of Islamic state

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