Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission to Gaza faces Israeli blockade

The Global Sumud Flotilla is a non‑violent civilian convoy organized to deliver food, water and medical supplies to the Gaza Strip. The mission, described by spokesperson Maria Elena Delia as “non‑violent, but deeply political,” set sail from Genoa in September 2025 and was escorted by drones and ships from Italy and other European nations.

During the journey the flotilla was targeted by Israeli forces: drones dropped flash‑bang and irritant‑substance bombs that struck eleven vessels, igniting some sails, and the Israeli army later intercepted the convoy, arresting activists and the Italian parliamentarian Arturo Scotto before expelling them. The flotilla had collected more than 500 tonnes of aid before being blocked from entering Gaza waters, aiming to challenge the long‑standing Israeli blockade and draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis.