The Global Sumud Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid, politicians, and activists, including Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela, remains en route to Gaza despite Israeli naval interceptions. The flotilla reported early Thursday that 30 of its vessels were “sailing strong,” just 46 nautical miles from the Gaza coast, after 13 boats carrying around 200 people were intercepted by Israel the previous evening.
Flotilla spokesperson Saif Abukeshek described the interceptions as “illegal,” noting that Israeli forces targeted vessels in international waters. Video footage from the Israeli foreign ministry showed Thunberg retrieving her belongings during the operation. French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan claimed that “hundreds” were arbitrarily detained during the interception.
Tensions have risen despite international pressure. Spain and Italy, which provided naval escorts to the convoy, warned the flotilla not to enter Israel’s declared 150-nautical-mile exclusion zone, citing potential danger to passengers and risks to regional stability. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez urged the flotilla to turn back, while organizers accused both countries of attempting to sabotage the mission.
The flotilla, which departed from Spain last month and had paused in Tunisia for 10 days during which organizers reported two drone attacks, aims to break the blockade of Gaza. Activists emphasized their determination to continue despite Israeli threats and intimidation.
Global reactions have been swift. Colombian President Gustavo Petro expelled Israeli diplomats in protest. Turkey condemned the interception as a “grave violation of international law,” while pro-Palestinian demonstrations erupted across Italy, including train station blockades in Naples and rallies in Rome.
The flotilla is one of several recent efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, following prior interceptions in June and July. As of the latest update, the convoy is nearing Gaza, undeterred by the Israeli naval blockade.
