The “Global Sumud Flotilla” aiming to break Israel’s deadly blockade of Gaza to delivered urgently needed humanitarian supplies, announced on Sunday that it is now approximately 825 kilometers from the besieged coastal enclave.
Comprising more than 50 civilian vessels, the flotilla was targeted by drone attacks believed to have been carried out by Israel.
The strikes caused multiple explosions and disrupted communications, though no casualties were reported. Despite the assault, the convoy continues its journey toward Gaza.
The flotilla includes coalitions such as the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Global Gaza Movement, the Sumud Convoy, and Malaysia’s Nusantara Sumud Initiative.
On board are over 500 activists from around 45 countries, including 54 French and 15 Belgian nationals, alongside doctors and prominent figures such as Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Final stage. Final miles. Final test. pic.twitter.com/8yF9zBG7Uc
— Global Sumud Flotilla Commentary (@GlobalSumudF) September 28, 2025
In a short video posted on the flotilla’s official X account, an activist aboard the vessel “Alma” reported low-altitude drone activity overnight, with two drones flying close to the boats but refraining from launching further attacks.
Activists reaffirmed their commitment to reaching Gaza, stating they would not be deterred by Israeli threats.
In response to the drone strikes, both Italy and Spain have dispatched naval vessels to escort the flotilla.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto condemned the attack and announced the deployment of a second navy ship to assist the convoy.
|Spain, Italy Deploy Naval Escorts to Protect Aid Flotilla|
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also confirmed the dispatch of a naval vessel to protect Spanish citizens on board.
The flotilla’s journey began in late August, with dozens of ships departing from Barcelona carrying humanitarian aid, especially medical supplies. Additional vessels joined from Genoa, Morocco, and Tunisia in early September.
Israel has previously intercepted and seized ships attempting to reach Gaza, forcibly deporting activists aboard.
However, this marks the first time such a large, coordinated civilian fleet has sailed collectively toward Gaza in a unified effort to challenge the deadly blockade and the ongoing genocide.
On Sunday, Day 723 on the ongoing genocide, at least 31 Palestinians were killed, and dozens more wounded, in Israeli strikes across the devasted, starved, and besieged Gaza Strip. Among the victims were women and children, with multiple homes targeted in overnight attacks.
