MEP Jaume Asens (Verts/ALE) has submitted a written parliamentary question to the European Commission, urging it to take preventive measures against possible Israeli attacks on flotillas heading to Gaza in 2026. The question, filed on 7 April 2026, highlights that three flotilla organisations – Freedom Flotilla, Madleen Thousands, and Sumud Flotilla – plan to sail with European citizens aboard to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip, which has been in place since 2007. Asens warns that these ships, flying EU member state flags, could be attacked in international waters, potentially triggering Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union, which obliges member states to aid one another in case of armed aggression.
Concrete asks and policy orientation The question contains two concrete demands: first, what preventive measures the Commission will take to avert what Asens calls "Israeli pirate attacks"; second, what action the Commission has taken against Israel following attacks in 2025 and before. The MEP frames the flotillas as operating in accordance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and notes that UN Security Council Resolution 2803 does not prohibit maritime aid to Palestinians. The policy orientation is clearly pro-flotilla and critical of Israel's blockade, seeking stronger EU intervention to protect civilian vessels.
Expected follow-up The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal the EU's stance on the legality of the blockade, the protection of EU-flagged vessels, and any diplomatic or legal measures against Israel. The response may also clarify the applicability of Article 42(7) and the extent of EU preventive action in international waters.
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