ISTANBUL

The Global Sumud Flotilla departed Menorca and is advancing toward Tunisia as part of its mission to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza, deliver humanitarian aid, and draw global attention to the plight of Palestinians, organizers announced Friday.

The coalition said most vessels are now en route to Tunis, while additional boats, including two undergoing storm-related repairs in Barcelona, are preparing to rejoin the fleet.

Safety checks and operational protocols are being carried out ahead of the next leg of the voyage.

On Sept. 7, dozens of vessels are expected to set sail from the ports of Catania in Sicily and Tunis, joining the Barcelona fleet in what organizers described as a “powerful, united action” to challenge Israel’s blockade.

The flotilla has received broad international support from lawmakers, unions, and rights advocates.

More than 100 current and former elected officials signed a joint letter urging the creation of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza, protection of the civilian mission, and immediate international action to uphold humanitarian law.

Francesca Albanese, UN special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, said the mission “fully complies with international law.” Dockworkers in the Italian port of Genoa also pledged to block all shipments to Israel if the flotilla is obstructed.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro voiced solidarity, telling participants: “You have chosen the most difficult and dangerous path: that of action in the face of brutal violence. From this shore, we send you strength, words, life.”

Call for international protection

Organizers urged the international community and UN bodies to ensure safe passage for the flotilla, protect participants from unlawful detention, and uphold Palestinians’ right to humanitarian maritime access.

They also demanded an end to Israel’s siege of Gaza, calling it part of “an ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people.”

The Global Sumud Flotilla also said it is not funded by governments or corporations but sustained by donations from families, communities, and grassroots organizations worldwide.

“Our coalition brings together doctors, humanitarians, activists, lawyers, artists, and everyday people united by a shared belief: that Palestinians deserve to live with dignity, freedom, and humanity,” the statement said.

The ongoing genocide in Gaza has entered its 700th day on Friday, with Israel having killed more than 64,200 Palestinians. The military campaign has devastated the enclave, which is facing famine.