The Global Sumud Flotilla has launched a new mission from Barcelona to Gaza, with nearly double the participation compared to its previous attempt, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge the ongoing blockade.
Organised by activists, NGOs, and volunteers from across the world, the flotilla includes around 70 boats and close to 1,000 participants representing nearly 70 countries. The initiative builds on its earlier mission in September, which involved 42 boats and over 400 volunteers.
The flotilla seeks to highlight the humanitarian situation in Gaza and call for accountability. Organisers said the effort aims to open a humanitarian corridor through sea and land routes while drawing global attention to the conditions faced by civilians.
Pablo Castilla, a spokesperson for the flotilla, said the mission responds to what organisers describe as reduced international focus on Gaza amid shifting geopolitical developments. He said the blockade has tightened, restricting aid entry and increasing pressure on the population.
Participants include volunteers from civil society groups, supported by well known organisations such as Greenpeace and Open Arms. The Barcelona municipality has also extended support to the initiative. Organisers said they have coordinated with legal experts, maritime specialists, and Palestinian civil society groups to ensure the mission remains within legal frameworks.
The flotilla will depart from multiple points across the Mediterranean, with the largest group joining from Spain. Organisers described the effort as both humanitarian and symbolic, aimed at drawing attention to the need for sustained international engagement.
The previous mission faced intervention at sea. Organisers said Israeli naval forces stopped the vessels before reaching Gaza, boarded them, and detained volunteers. Communication systems were disrupted during the operation, limiting live coverage and emergency signals.
Despite past challenges, organisers remain committed to continuing the mission. They said the expanded scale reflects growing international support and concern over the situation.
The flotilla’s journey will test both logistical coordination and international response as it moves toward Gaza in the coming days.
