Thaindian News

WASHINGTON D.C. (BNO NEWS) – The American Jewish Committee (AJC) condemned the actions of the pro-Palestinian group which resulted in a violent confrontation with the Israeli Navy, AJC Executive Director David Harris announced on Monday.

According to AJC, the “Free Gaza” supporters deliberately caused the violent and deadly attacks in an attempt to sail a flotilla of ships to Gaza.

“This tragedy on the high seas could have been avoided, and we regret the loss of life. The fact that the flotilla refused to cooperate with Israel’s repeated entreaties to unload their humanitarian cargo in Ashdod for delivery to Gaza proves that violent clashes are exactly what the international supporters of Hamas must have been seeking,” Harris said.

The AJC Director also said that the Israeli officials offered the Gaza supporters to deliver the humanitarian aid by land after a security check, but they refused. When the officers attempted to board the ships they were met with violence, including attacks with pipes and other objects.

“Israel, under international law, had every right to intercept the ships, and had warned the flotilla to not to attempt to land in Gaza,” Harris declared.

On early Monday, at least nine people were killed and scores of others were left injured after Israeli ships clashed with six ships carrying pro-Palestinian activists and what organizers say is aid for Gaza.

Israel said the ships raised suspicion because they refused to be inspected for weapons. Israel also said they had offered alternatives, such as transferring the supplies via ground borders, but organizers refused.