The group is carrying supplies for Gazan Palestinians and protesting what they say is “Israel’s “illegal, decades-long blockade, and ongoing genocide” in the enclave.

Israeli authorities have made clear the flotilla will not be allowed to reach Gaza. “The IDF is prepared to stop the vessel before it enters Israeli waters,” a government source said. Officials say Hassan’s diplomatic status delayed enforcement actions, but they are now prepared to act.

An aid ship with 12 activists on board, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, is nearing Gaza, having reached the Egyptian coast, organisers say. The Madleen, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition,