Global Sumud Flotilla Approaches Gaza Amid Heightened Tensions
The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of 51 vessels and approximately 500 activists from Spain, Tunisia, Italy, and Greece, is poised to enter the “high-risk zone” of the eastern Mediterranean in two days in an effort to break the Gaza blockade, reports 24brussels.
As the flotilla sets out from Greek waters, its organizers emphasized the crucial need for international vigilance and solidarity at this critical juncture. The ships are currently 463 nautical miles (857 kilometers) from Gaza and are expected to arrive in the Strip within four to seven days, following a brief stop on the Greek island of Crete to address mechanical issues with some vessels.
Notably, the flotilla’s flagship, “Familia,” which included prominent figures such as Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, has been sidelined due to mechanical failure, prompting the relocation of its crew members to other boats. Meanwhile, a separate convoy of approximately a dozen ships has departed from Italy to support the Freedom Flotilla, established in 2008 and known for several controversial missions.
Although the Freedom Flotilla and the Global Sumud Flotilla operate separately, organizers aligned themselves as “allies,” committing to maintain daily communication without merging at sea. Recently, Global Sumud Flotilla members reported experiencing explosions, unauthorized drone activity, and communication disruptions, coinciding with Israeli accusations of links to Hamas.
On Thursday, the initiative’s organizers issued warnings regarding the risk of “new attacks” with “heavy weapons” based on “credible intelligence” suggesting an escalation of the Israeli military response. In light of these threats, the Spanish government dispatched the maritime action vessel BAM Furor from Cartagena, while Italy sent two military ships to provide assistance if required.
This developing situation underscores the ongoing complexities of maritime missions in the region as international stakeholders grapple with the implications of the flotilla’s defiance against the blockade and the associated security risks.
