The Global Sumud Flotilla is advancing toward Tunisia, marking a significant step in its mission to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza. Organisers confirmed on Friday that most of the vessels, which departed from Menorca, are now heading to Tunis for the next stage of their journey.
The flotilla, described as the “largest civilian maritime mission” to Gaza, aims to deliver essential humanitarian aid and draw global attention to the severe conditions in the besieged enclave.
The mission has garnered widespread international support, including from over 100 current and former elected officials who have signed a joint letter urging for the flotilla’s protection and the creation of a humanitarian corridor. This international Sumud flotilla is a non-violent initiative sustained by grassroots donations.
Two vessels are currently undergoing repairs in Barcelona due to storm damage but are expected to rejoin the fleet soon. The full convoy, including dozens of vessels from Catania, Sicily, and Tunis, is scheduled to set sail together on 7 September in what organisers call a “powerful, united action”.
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A mission for humanity
The flotilla carries critical supplies such as baby formula, medication, and food. Activists, including a delegation of 10 South Africans, have undergone non-violence training in preparation for the journey. The participants are determined to proceed despite the risks, which historically include interception by Israeli forces.
“Our coalition brings together doctors, humanitarians, activists, lawyers, artists, and everyday people united by a shared belief: that Palestinians deserve to live with dignity, freedom, and humanity,” a statement from the coalition read.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro voiced his solidarity, telling participants, “You have chosen the most difficult and dangerous path: that of action in the face of brutal violence.”
Speaking from South Africa, Dr Abeer Zayyad, a Palestinian archaeologist, shared a message of support for the mission, ““We are very thankful for these brave people and we hope that they will arrive safely and go back safely to their family.”
The mission is also being monitored by a legal observer boat to document the events. Organisers have called on the United Nations and the international community to ensure the safe passage of the Sumud flotilla and protect its participants from unlawful detention. The UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, has stated that the mission “fully complies with international law.”
The determination of the participants underscores the urgency of the situation in Gaza, which, after nearly 700 days of conflict, is facing a devastating famine and a humanitarian crisis. The global support for the Sumud flotilla highlights a growing international call for an end to the blockade and the protection of Palestinian rights.
