Israel’s navy has failed to stop a massive aid flotilla heading toward war-torn Gaza. The fleet, organized by the international volunteer coalition Global Sumud Flotilla, consists of 55 ships carrying food and relief supplies and is now approaching Gaza’s coast.
In a Facebook post, flotilla spokesperson Wael Nawar said that Israeli naval forces initially intercepted the lead ship, Alma, but the rest of the vessels continued moving forward. After several hours, Israel released Alma. Later, another ship, Sirius, was also briefly stopped but ultimately allowed to proceed.
The flotilla was launched on August 31 from Spain, jointly organized by the Freedom Flotilla Foundation, Global Movement to Gaza, Maghreb Sumud Flotilla, and Sumud Nusantara. Volunteers from 44 countries are on board.
Since Israel’s Gaza offensive began in October 2023, this is the largest aid convoy attempting to reach the besieged enclave. According to Al Jazeera reporters traveling with the flotilla, Israel initially jammed communication systems on some ships but eventually withdrew its naval presence.
The fleet is now close to Gaza and is expected to reach its shores within the next day or two.