Tehran: Israeli forces’ raid on the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s humanitarian ship, Handala, has been denounced by Iran as a clear example of maritime piracy and a gross violation of international law. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismaeil Baqaei condemned the attack, highlighting its implications for the ongoing situation in Gaza.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei emphasized that the raid was aimed at furthering the genocidal policy in occupied Palestine and perpetuating the harsh blockade that contributes to famine and starvation among the defenseless people of Gaza. The statement was made on Sunday night, following the attack.

Baqaei described the assault on the Handala, which follows a similar incident involving the humanitarian vessel Madeleine in June, as a blatant violation of international law principles. He urged all governments and international organizations to condemn the actions and called for an immediate lift of the blockade on Gaza to facilitate the arrival of humanitarian aid through recognized international mechanisms.

The Israeli regime’s forces attacked the Handala in international waters late on Saturday, resulting in the kidnapping of 21 activists aboard who were carrying humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip. This incident marks the third attack on a humanitarian ship by Israel from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition in international waters since May.