Overview and Key Participants
An international aid flotilla, aiming to challenge Israel’s naval blockade and deliver assistance to the Palestinian territory, has resumed its journey towards Gaza. The flotilla, consisting of approximately 47 civilian vessels, includes around 40 Italian activists alongside participants from numerous countries, such as Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Flotilla Composition and Objectives
The flotilla, which paused for several days in Greek waters for repairs, is now fully equipped with the addition of several Greek vessels. The activists on board plan to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza within the coming week.
Italian and Spanish Naval Support
In response to the flotilla’s mission, Italy and Spain have deployed warships near the flotilla to assist with rescue operations and humanitarian tasks.
Reactions and Concerns
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reiterated his previous proposal for the flotilla to deliver aid to Cyprus, where the Catholic Church would distribute it in Gaza. However, this suggestion was rejected by the flotilla organizers.
Tajani stated, “We have always said… that approaching Israeli waters is risky. We do not know what might happen. Enforcing the blockade is dangerous.”
Previous Incidents
The flotilla encountered an incident on Wednesday when it was attacked in international waters off Crete by armed drones equipped with tear gas and pepper spray. Although there were no injuries, the attack resulted in damage to the vessels.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this international aid flotilla? The primary goal of the flotilla is to challenge Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.
- Who are the key participants in this flotilla? The flotilla includes around 40 Italian activists and participants from various countries, such as Sweden’s Greta Thunberg.
- What concerns have been raised regarding the flotilla’s mission? Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has expressed concerns about the risks associated with approaching Israeli waters, emphasizing that enforcing the blockade is dangerous.
- What incidents has the flotilla encountered so far? The flotilla was attacked by armed drones in international waters off Crete, resulting in damage to the vessels but no injuries.
