Hamas issued a press statement condemning Israel's interception and seizure of the humanitarian ship Handala in international waters, labeling the act as "criminal terrorism and piracy" and a "blatant challenge to the will of humanity." The statement, released today, criticized the blockade preventing the ship from reaching Gaza, which Hamas describes as facing "famine-stricken" conditions and "systematic starvation." The statement, attributed to Hamas, highly values the "courage of the international solidarity activists" aboard the Handala, stating their "message has reached the people of Gaza—and the world." Hamas holds the "government of war criminal Netanyahu" fully responsible for the safety of these activists and calls for continued aid convoys to break the "unjust siege" and stop "starvation and thirst policies." Hamas further called on the United Nations and international organizations to condemn the alleged crime, pressure Israel to end its "genocidal starvation campaign," and hold its leaders accountable for "crimes against humanity." The group urged "all free people to continue launching ships and aid convoys."
