Israel seizes boat from Gaza seeking to break blockade

GAZA CITY: Israel’s navy seized a boat on Tuesday that had left from a Gaza port with wounded Palestinians aboard in a bid to challenge the blockade of the Hamas-run enclave. Hundreds of people had gathered to see off the boat carrying nine passengers, including four people said to have been wounded by Israeli soldiers along with students. The passengers “with specific needs are prevented from travelling, receiving care and finishing their studies,” said organiser Raed Abu Dair. “We are determined to break the blockade.” Mahmud Abu Ataya, 25, who recently suffered a leg wound east of Gaza City, said: “I am leaving to be cared for abroad.” But the boat was seized by Israel’s navy a short time after setting off.