Why did the Israeli Navy stop Flotilla Vessels heading to Gaza? October 2025

This article was originally titled "Operation “Horizon Shield”: Within 12 Hours - Operational Control Achieved Over 41 Vessels That Attempted To Breach the Maritime Security Blockade"

During Yom Kippur, in an operation that lasted approximately 12 hours, Israeli Navy personnel foiled a large-scale incursion attempt by hundreds of individuals aboard 41 naval vessels that declared their intention to break the lawful maritime security blockade adjacent to the Gaza Strip. The operation involved numerous naval units, including Shayetet 13, Shayetet 3, the Missile Boat Flotilla, Snapir troops and other naval units.

Following the operation, the flotilla members were safely transferred to Ashdod Port for further processing by the Israel Police.

The Chief of the General Staff, LTG Eyal Zamir, was present throughout the operation at the Israeli Navy’s command center, and maintained continuous contact with the commanders involved and present during the operation. He expressed deep appreciation for the troops’ actions.

The operation was commanded at-sea by the Commander of the Navy, VADM David Saar Salama. His remarks to the troops prior to departure were: “The Navy stands up to a mission that requires determination and professionalism, to ensure that any attempt to breach the maritime security blockade will be stopped far from our shores. I have full confidence in you that you will carry out the mission successfully while upholding our values.”

The IDF will continue to resolutely maintain the maritime security blockade around the Gaza Strip.

Israeli Navy Preparations for Operation “Horizon Shield”:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was Operation Horizon Shield?
A: According to the article, Operation Horizon Shield was an Israeli Navy operation conducted during Yom Kippur to stop vessels attempting to breach the maritime security blockade near Gaza.

Q: How many vessels were intercepted?
A: The article states that 41 naval vessels carrying hundreds of individuals were intercepted.

Q: Which Israeli Navy units participated in the operation?
A: According to the article, Shayetet 13, Shayetet 3, the Missile Boat Flotilla, Snapir troops, and additional naval units participated.

Q: Where were the flotilla members taken after the operation?
A: The article states that the flotilla members were transferred to Ashdod Port for further processing by the Israel Police.

Q: Who commanded the operation?
A: According to the article, the operation was commanded at sea by Commander of the Navy VADM David Saar Salama.