The Global Sumud Flotilla, which set sail from Spain on August 31, is the largest maritime mission to Gaza to date. Coastal countries control the waters closest to their shores, called territorial waters, which extend 12 nautical miles (22km) from the coast. Israel has attacked previous flotillas in international watersSeveral Freedom Flotilla vessels have attempted to break the blockade of Gaza since 2010. The most deadly occurred on May 31, 2010, when Israeli commandos raided the Mavi Marmara in international waters. AdvertisementAccording to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the mission is not only lawful but also protected under a comprehensive set of international legal instruments.