Global “Sumud” Flotilla Sets Sail from Italy to Gaza This Wednesday

In the most ambitious effort yet to break Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, the Global Sumud Flotilla is carrying tons of essential food and medical supplies for civilians affected by the ongoing genocide. Organizers have faced escalating attacks and threats from Israeli authorities, forcing adjustments to the mission, including reducing participant capacity on several vessels. Among those who returned was Belgian physician Hanne Bosselaers, who urged the world to keep attention on both the humanitarian crisis and the flotilla’s journey.

Solidarity for the mission is spreading across Europe. In Italy, thousands demonstrated in cities including Naples and Rome, promising to bring the country to a standstill if Israel interferes with the flotilla. The union Unione Sindacale di Base (USB) announced a general strike on September 22, while the leftist party Potere al Popolo confirmed plans for mass actions, including an October 4 march in Rome, to oppose Italy’s complicity with genocide and support Palestinian resistance.

The flotilla mission is hailed by organizers as “the largest solidarity mission in history.” Conscious of the threats, foreign ministers from over a dozen countries—including Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and South Africa—issued a joint statement backing the initiative, emphasizing concerns over the flotilla’s safety and warning that anyone obstructing it would be held accountable under international law.

This historic effort reflects a growing global movement determined to challenge the blockade and bring aid to those suffering in Gaza, despite mounting political and physical obstacles.