Gaza: A Gaza-bound aid ship carrying 21 civilians issued a distress call Saturday after Israeli forces began approaching it, according to the International Committee to Break the Siege of Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, the committee reported that "occupation forces are heading toward Handala. the ship issues a distress call," in a post on X. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the aid voyage, had earlier stated that the vessel was approximately 70 nautical miles off Gaza's coast.

Israeli officials had previously threatened to intercept the ship if it refused to alter its course. The Handala departed from Italy carrying humanitarian supplies including baby formula, food, and medicine, and is operating under international maritime and humanitarian law. Onboard are 21 unarmed civilians, including parliamentarians, medics, and volunteers.