Humanitarian Flotilla Departs Barcelona in Bid to Break Gaza Siege
Vessels expected to reach Gaza in mid-September in third attempt by sea to end a war that has killed over 63,000 Palestinians.
The Global Sumud Flotilla has departed the Spanish port of Barcelona, aiming to “break Israel’s illegal siege of Gaza,” according to its organisers. Boats began leaving the harbour at about 3:30pm local time on Sunday, cheered on by activists, support staff, and well wishers.
The flotilla includes delegations from 44 countries, with additional vessels expected to join from Greece, Italy, and Tunisia. Organisers said the mission is independent and not linked to any government or political party. The convoy, carrying activists, European lawmakers, and public figures, is expected to arrive in Gaza by mid September.
Among the passengers is Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg, who condemned what she called Israel’s “genocidal intent” in Gaza and criticised governments for failing to uphold international law. Palestinian and international activists at the port echoed her remarks, denouncing Israel’s bombing and starvation policies.
This marks the third attempt in recent months to reach Gaza by sea. Previous missions in June and July were intercepted by Israeli forces, with activists detained and later expelled. Organisers said those efforts underscored their determination: “We will be back.”
Analysts describe the flotilla as a symbolic act of resistance likely to draw global attention, though Israel is expected to block its arrival.
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