Dozens of Boats Set Sail in the Mediterranean to Break Israel’s Blockade and Show Solidarity with Palestine

Among the participants are renowned Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, Irish actor Liam Cunningham, Spanish actor Eduardo Fernandez, and former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau. At a press conference before the departure, Thunberg condemned Israel’s actions, stating, “Gaza is a clear example of oppression, genocide, and ethnic cleansing. Israel is killing, and the world is watching this genocide live. It’s horrifying to see people continue their lives as if nothing is happening while watching a genocide on their phones.”

Thunberg emphasized the need for global action, saying, “Everyone must do something for Palestine. Staying silent makes our governments complicit, and they are as guilty as Israel.” She also addressed the possibility of the flotilla being stopped by the Israeli military, stating, “Our Plan B is clear: to turn back and start again. This is a clean, humanitarian mission.”

Spanish actor Fernandez echoed Thunberg’s sentiments, calling Gaza “a mirror that reflects all of us,” and described the flotilla as “a cry for human dignity.” Irish actor Cunningham urged the international community to impose sanctions on Israel, stating, “The silence and inaction of the world are a failure and a shameful chapter in history.”

Former Barcelona Mayor Colau highlighted the importance of international civil mobilization, saying, “Israel is killing children, humanity, and international law. Gaza is not alone.”

The flotilla, named after the Arabic word “Sumud,” meaning “steadfastness” or “unwavering determination,” represents the Palestinian people’s resilience in the face of occupation. The initiative has drawn significant attention from the international media and civil society, with hundreds of people waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine” and “Boycott Israel” during the departure ceremony.