A flotilla carrying aid to Gaza continues its journey despite what organizers call Israeli military intimidation. The group, with around 45 vessels, includes activists like Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela. They departed Spain last month, aiming to break the blockade on Gaza, where the UN warns of famine. Israeli naval forces recently harassed the ships near Egyptian waters, but the flotilla insists it will not turn back.
Spain and Italy have sent naval ships to escort the flotilla but warned the vessels not to enter Israel’s exclusion zone near Gaza. Both countries urged the activists to stop their mission, fearing escalation. Organizers say Spain and Italy’s efforts amount to sabotage. The flotilla previously stopped in Tunisia, where organizers claim drone attacks targeted them.
Read more: Gaza aid Flotilla faces naval confrontation near blockade
Israeli warships aggressively circled key flotilla vessels like the Alma and Sirius. A French lawmaker aboard Sirius described encounters with unidentified ships cutting off radar and internet communications. The flotilla remains vigilant as it approaches the area where previous aid attempts were blocked or attacked. Israel has already stopped two similar missions this year.
The activists vow to press on, undeterred by threats. They call the blockade a humanitarian crisis and want to deliver urgent aid to Gaza’s people. Spain and Italy’s naval escorts have refused to cross into the restricted zone, citing safety concerns. The flotilla’s journey highlights growing tensions between humanitarian efforts and Israeli security measures.
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This mission has attracted international attention amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. With high-profile activists involved, the flotilla challenges Israel’s blockade policy. The situation remains tense as the vessels near Gaza, raising questions about the fate of the aid and the future of humanitarian access to the region.