A flotilla of ships left Barcelona Sunday in the largest attempt yet to break Israel’s 18-year naval blockade of Gaza. The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying food, water, and medicine, includes about 20 boats with delegations from 44 countries, with many more expected to join in the coming days.
Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, among those aboard, said the mission seeks to spotlight what she called the deliberate denial of survival essentials in Gaza. The fleet is demanding safe passage and a permanent humanitarian sea corridor.
Gaza faces severe hunger as Israeli forces intensify operations in the north. Over 63,000 people have been killed in the war, with more than 330 dying from malnutrition, including at least 120 children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Israel has already intercepted three flotillas this year, including one in June that led to Thunberg’s deportation. Organizers expect the current convoy to reach Gaza by mid-September.
