posted on Jun, 1 2010 @ 03:04 PM
Israel was acting within the law.
According to the San Remo Manual that governs international humanitarian law, it is permissible under rule 67(a) to attack neutral vessels on the high
seas when the vessels “are believed on reasonable grounds to be carrying contraband or breaching a blockade, and after prior warning they ...
intentionally and clearly refuse to stop, or ... intentionally and clearly resist visit, search or capture.”
San Remo Manual on International Law Applicable to Armed Conflicts at Sea 1994
Prepared by International Lawyers and Naval Experts. Convened by the International Institute of Humanitarian Law. Adopted in June 1994.
www.icrc.org...
And even according to Oslo.
Gaza-Jerico of 1994, Agreement annex 1, Sec 1.b paragraph 4
As part of Israel's responsibilities for safety and security within the three Maritime Activity Zones, Israel Navy vessels may sail throughout these
zones, as necessary and without limitations, and may take any measures necessary against vessels ...suspected of being used for terrorist activities
or for smuggling arms, ammunition, drugs, goods, or for any other illegal activity. The Palestinian Police will be notified of such actions, and the
ensuing procedures will be coordinated through the Maritime Coordination and Cooperation Center.
www.mfa.gov.il...
So, there you have it. One by international law, the other per Israel and PA agreement. Israel was and is within it's right.