Israeli naval forces intercepted a flotilla of vessels attempting to deliver aid to Gaza, according to confirmations from Israeli military and foreign ministry officials.

The interception took place hundreds of miles from the Gaza Strip, according to reports. The Israeli Navy took control of the participating vessels during the operation.

The flotilla was described by Israeli authorities as being linked to Hamas, though the specific nature of that connection was not detailed in official statements. The vessels were reportedly carrying humanitarian aid intended for the Palestinian territory.

Gaza has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007, with Israel citing security concerns related to Hamas control of the territory. Previous aid flotillas have attempted to break the blockade, leading to similar interceptions by Israeli forces.

The current incident represents the latest in a series of attempts by international activists to deliver aid directly to Gaza by sea. Israeli officials have consistently maintained that aid to Gaza should be delivered through established channels and inspection procedures.