Israel has stated it will not allow vessels to enter an active combat zone or breach a lawful naval blockade, specifically addressing a Hamas-organized flotilla named "Sumud," according to a statement from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) released between 5:09 PM and 5:38 PM UTC on September 22nd, 2025. The MFA urged flotilla participants to dock at Ashkelon Marina to unload aid for prompt, coordinated transfer to the Gaza Strip, emphasizing a peaceful transfer of humanitarian assistance. The Israeli MFA's statement indicated that the "Sumud" flotilla is organized by Hamas and intended to serve Hamas's interests. Israel's position is that it will not permit the violation of international law or the existing naval blockade. The statement was issued during a 28-minute reporting window on September 22nd, 2025, during which this stance was communicated. This development follows earlier reports from September 22nd, 2025, detailing Hamas executing three Palestinians near Shifa Hospital in Gaza City and Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) tanks being positioned near Al-Saleh Tower in western Gaza City. Earlier on the same day, an IDF officer was seriously injured and three terrorists were eliminated in Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan neighborhood. Hamas had also reportedly proposed to President Donald Trump releasing half the hostages for a 60-day pause in fighting, though leaders had not yet signed the document.
