Ashdod’s in the headlines as Israel blocks Gaza flotilla activity and detains activists; major port handling 60% of Israel’s imports. Israel’s sixth-largest city, biggest port, in the Southern District.
Israel has intercepted the Global Sumud flotilla in international waters and detained about 430 activists. National security minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir has posted footage showing bound activists kneeling while he taunts them; the video has provoked condemnation from multiple governments, Israeli ministers and rights groups, and rapid deportations of the detainees.