International activists seeking to sail an aid boat to Gaza condemned Wednesday what they called Israel's threats and "declared intent to attack" their vessel as it crosses the Mediterranean.
Israel's military said Tuesday it was ready to "protect" the country's seas, after the vessel -- the Madleen, sailed by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition -- left Sicily on Sunday carrying around a dozen people, including environmental activist Greta Thunberg.
"The navy operates day and night to protect Israel's maritime space and borders at sea," army spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said.
Asked about the aid vessel, he said: "For this case as well, we are prepared."
He added: "We have gained experience in recent years, and we will act accordingly."
In a statement on Wednesday, the activist coalition said it "strongly condemns Israel's declared intent to attack Madleen", calling it a "threat".