Background on Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF)
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) is a humanitarian mission aiming to break the blockade of Gaza by sea. Comprising 53 boats, it sets sail from various ports across the Mediterranean, including Greece, Italy, and Cyprus. The flotilla includes participants from over 20 countries, with a significant number of Spanish nationals on board.
Key Participants
Among the notable participants is Ada Colau, the former mayor of Barcelona. She joined the mission to raise awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advocate for an end to the blockade. Colau was onboard the ‘Sirius’ when it was intercepted by Israeli forces.
Interception of Boats
On the morning of Thursday, the GSF reported that Israeli forces had illegally intercepted 13 of their boats while the remaining 40 continued their journey towards Gaza, approximately 46 nautical miles away.
- Intercepted Boats: The intercepted boats include ‘Aurora’, ‘Dir yassine’, ‘Grande Blu’, ‘Hio’, ‘Huga’, ‘Morgana’, ‘Otaria’, ‘Seulle’, ‘Spectre’, and ‘Yulara’. Additionally, the previously reported boats ‘Adara’, ‘Alma’, and ‘Sirius’ were also intercepted.
- Spanish Nationals: A total of 30 Spanish nationals were aboard the intercepted boats, according to Saif Abukeshekla, the coordinator of the GSF.
- Denunciation of Actions: The GSF denounced the illegal interception and abuse of international waters by Israeli naval forces. They also reported the use of water cannons against their boats and the cutting off of live transmissions and communications.
- Unconfirmed Status: The GSF expressed concern over the unconfirmed status of those aboard the intercepted boats, labeling the intervention as an illegal attack against unarmed humanitarians. They called on international governments and institutions to demand their immediate safety and release.
Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Response
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed via social media that several boats had been detained “safely” and their passengers were being transported to an Israeli port. They also mentioned that Greta Thunberg and her companions were unharmed.
Radio Warning
Prior to the interceptions, Israeli forces issued a radio warning, urging boats to alter their course due to approaching blockade zones. The message emphasized that aid delivery to Gaza should be conducted through established channels.
