They talk a big game, but in the end they go down like the cowards they really are.

(CNN) — Israeli naval forces successfully took over a boat of activists Tuesday intent on breaking what they call the “siege of Gaza” without violent resistance.

Benny Gantz, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, confirmed that naval forces had been ordered to seize the vessel, known as the Dignite, as it approached the coast of Gaza, where a maritime security blockade is in force.

The forces “operated in line with procedures and took every precaution necessary while using all operational tactics determined prior to the operation, and avoid causing harm to the activists on-board while ensuring the safety of the soldiers,” the IDF said.

After the boarding, “the passengers’ health was examined and they were offered food and beverages.”

The Dignite is carrying 10 activists and a crew of three and is affiliated with the Free Gaza Movement, whose aim is to break the “siege of Gaza.”

Greta Berlin, spokeswoman for the Free Gaza Movement, said the boat declared its destination as Alexandria, Egypt, so that it could leave Greek waters.

But it changed its destination in international waters, which is legal, Berlin said.

Four navy boats surrounded the Dignite as it approached the coast of Gaza, the boat’s organizers said.

After the Israeli Navy intercepted the boat, it engaged in a “dialogue” with the activists “in an attempt to dissuade them from continuing on their route” toward a maritime security blockade off the Gaza coast, the IDF said.

It said that any supplies on board “may be transferred, legally, through the existing land crossings and the Ashdod Port.”