Largest Gaza Aid Flotilla Sets Sail, Forced Back Due to Weather, and Resumes Journey
The Global Sumud Flotilla, the largest civilian and humanitarian fleet since the Israeli blockade of Gaza began, departed from Barcelona towards Gaza, aiming to break the Israeli siege and deliver much-needed aid. The flotilla, however, was forced to return due to stormy weather and has since resumed its journey in what is being hailed as the biggest attempt ever to break the illegal Israeli siege over Gaza
, according to Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
Background
The Israeli blockade on Gaza has caused a man-made famine in the Palestinian enclave, leading to 339 deaths due to starvation, including 124 children. The flotilla, named after the Arabic word for perseverance
, is carrying aid including food, water, and medicine for the struggling population of Gaza. The flotilla consists of over 20 boats and more than 300 activists from 44 countries, including notable figures such as Thunberg, former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau, and Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham.
Setbacks and Resilience
The flotilla initially set sail from Barcelona on Sunday, with thousands of supporters gathered at the port to see off the boats. However, stormy weather forced the flotilla to return to port in Barcelona. We conducted a sea trial and then returned to port to allow the storm to pass. This meant delaying our departure to avoid risking complications with the smaller boats,
the Global Sumud Flotilla Mission said in a statement.
Despite the setback, the flotilla resumed its journey on Monday evening after the weather conditions improved. Activists chanted 'Free Palestine' slogans and blew horns as they left the port.
Reactions and Implications
The flotilla has been met with stark warnings from Israeli authorities. Minister of National Security Ben-Gvir warned the activists of Flotilla, stating, 'They will be treated as terrorists'. However, the flotilla organizers and participants remain undeterred, with the former mayor of Barcelona, Ada Colau, stating: 'International law is on our side'.
On the other hand, a maritime expert opined that the aid transported by the flotilla might not reach Gaza due to a lack of docking facilities and Israel’s lawful
blockade. Despite these warnings and potential complications, the flotilla continues its journey, with the activists hoping to make a tangible difference in the lives of the people in Gaza.
Current Status
The flotilla is expected to be joined by more boats before they reach Gaza around Sep. 14 or 15. Until then, the world watches as these activists embark on their journey, highlighting the ongoing crisis in Gaza and challenging the Israeli siege through their humanitarian efforts.