Flotilla Gaza Aid stormed by Israeli commandos; 10 killed

Jerusalem (GaeaTimes.com) A flotilla of ships was carrying aid and hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists to the blockaded Gaza Strips when Israeli naval commandos raided the Gaza bound aid flotilla. At least 10 passengers were killed as they stormed the flotilla. On the part of Israel, it was reported that the commandos were attacked by knives, clubs and live fire from two pistols which were obtained forcibly from soldiers as they rappelled from a helicopter to board one of the vessels. Dozens of activists and at least ten Israeli soldiers are reported to have been wounded from the bloody confrontation in international waters.

A worldwide condemnation and a diplomatic crisis arose out of this incident. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said that he was shocked by the deadly event and demanded a full investigation.

It is vital that there is a full investigation to determine exactly how this bloodshed took place.

Ban Ki-moon said.

I believe Israel must urgently provide a full explanation.

There was massive protest in Turkey, which unofficially supported the Gaza aid mission. Israeli Palestinian peace efforts would be highly affected after this incident. The White House said in a written statement that the United States deeply regrets the loss of life and injuries.

There are two conflicting account of the incident happened. The activists claimed that the Israelis fired first and the officials of Israel insist that they had to open fire for self defense. Reportedly, the comrades were surprised by a group of Arabic speaking persons as they rappelled on the deck.