Israel announced it has forced the Libyan humanitarian aid ship heading to the Gaza Strip to enter Egyptian waters. The ship was followed by eight Israeli zodiacs to make sure it does not change course.
The cargo ship which set sail from Greece is sponsored by the Gaddafi International Charity and Development Foundation (GICDF), a charity run by the son of Libyan leader Muammar al-Qadhafi.
In a statement to Agence France-Presse, GICDF Director Youssef Sawan strongly denied claims by Egyptian security sources that the ship would reach the Arish seaport in a few hours, and that its cargo would be transported by land to the strip.
Arish Governor Mourad Moawfi said the ship’s captain has requested permission to enter the Arish seaport, which was granted to him.
Meanwhile, Israeli radio has reported that Austrian Jewish businessman Martin Schlaff is mediating between Israel and the GICDF.
For its part, the US State Department has asked the Libyan government to avoid confrontation with Israel.
Translated from the Arabic Edition.
