DaysofPal-An international flotilla carrying more than 500 activists and aid volunteers, is sailing toward Gaza, despite Israeli warnings and the threat of interception, organizers said Tuesday.
Marwan Ben Qutaya, spokesperson for the International Sumud Flotilla, stated that the “Fleet of Steadfastness” is now about 318 nautical miles (600 kilometers) from Gaza’s shores, pressing ahead in its mission to challenge the Israeli suffocating blockade of the enclave.
The convoy includes more than 42 vessels and is accompanied by three military escort ships from Italy, Spain, and Greece, according to Ben Qutaya.
He said the flotilla has so far avoided harassment and has been sailing under calm weather with high morale among participants.
One of the ships, named Deir Yassin, is moving at a speed of four knots as part of the coordinated journey.
Activists on board have reportedly received audio messages and videos of support from inside Gaza, boosting their resolve to continue despite the risks.
Israel has issued repeated threats against the flotilla and, according to organizers, has begun preparing hospitals and security facilities in anticipation of potential confrontations.
Ben Qutaya predicted possible attempts to intercept the ships within the next two nights, either in international waters or closer to Palestinian territorial waters.
“This maritime campaign reflects the will of people worldwide to break the blockade imposed on Gaza for so many years,” he said, adding that participants are determined to reach the territory.
The flotilla set sail from Barcelona at the end of August, followed by additional ships that departed from Genoa in early September.
Its journey comes as Gaza faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, with more than two million residents enduring severe food shortages and lack of medicine due to the Israeli closure of all border crossings since March.
The blockade has deepened famine conditions and forced mass displacement from Gaza City, intensifying what aid groups describe as one of the worst humanitarian disasters in recent history.
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