Netanyahu Praises Israeli Navy After Interception of Gaza-Bound Flotilla.
Israeli PM Visits Naval Command Center, Commends Forces for Outstanding Job.
Jerusalem:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Israeli Navy’s command center at the Kirya military headquarters alongside Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, where he monitored operations involving the interception of Gaza-bound flotilla vessels.
During the visit, Netanyahu received a security briefing from Israeli Navy Commander Vice Admiral Eyal Harel regarding naval operations targeting what Israeli authorities described as “terrorism-supporting flotilla boats” that had departed from Turkey and were allegedly attempting to breach the naval blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.
Israeli Forces Take Control of Flotilla Vessels
According to Israeli officials, naval units successfully took control of the flotilla vessels as part of ongoing efforts to enforce the maritime blockade around Gaza.
Netanyahu observed the operation from the command center and later spoke directly over military radio with the commander of Flotilla 3, congratulating Israeli naval personnel for carrying out the mission.
“Please convey my congratulations to all the soldiers in the force,” Netanyahu said during the communication. “I think you are doing an outstanding job, both with the first flotilla and with this one, and effectively neutralizing a malicious plan designed to break the isolation we have imposed on Hamas terrorists in Gaza.”
The Prime Minister further praised the professionalism and efficiency of the operation, noting that the mission had been conducted quietly and effectively.
“You are doing this with great success, and I must say also quietly, and certainly with less prominence than our enemies expected,” he added.“So, heartfelt congratulations. Keep going until the end.”
Ongoing Gaza Tensions
Israel has maintained a naval blockade on Gaza for years, arguing that it is necessary to prevent weapons and military supplies from reaching Hamas and other militant groups operating in the enclave.
Pro-Palestinian activists and humanitarian groups have repeatedly attempted to send flotillas toward Gaza in efforts to challenge the blockade and draw international attention to humanitarian conditions in the territory.
Israeli authorities, however, have consistently viewed such flotillas as provocative actions that threaten national security.
Netanyahu Ends Remarks on Lighter Note
Concluding his remarks to naval personnel, Netanyahu added a personal and lighter comment while watching the maritime operation unfold. “The water looks absolutely wonderful,” he said.
“I would love to be out there with you.”
The operation comes amid continuing regional tensions and heightened military activity surrounding the ongoing conflict involving Gaza and Israel.
