GAZA, (PIC)
The Global Sumud Flotilla has completed its preparations in Italy to set sail on Sunday, aiming to break the Israeli blockade imposed on the war-ravaged Gaza Strip and deliver humanitarian aid.
The flotilla, a civilian initiative launched in 2025 with the participation of civil society representatives, activists, and volunteers from various countries, is preparing for its second voyage as part of the “Spring 2026 Mission” from Italy.
Several boats departed from Barcelona, Spain, on April 12 and arrived on April 23 in Sicily, Italy, where they joined other participating vessels and finalized preparations at the port of Augusta in the island.
On Saturday, activists loaded the ships with essential supplies including water, bread, fruits, vegetables, and fuel. During the final preparations at the port, the Turkish delegation distributed sweets to participants.
Maria Elena Dalia, the flotilla’s spokesperson in Italy, said that the boats are ready and moored at Augusta port, with visa and departure procedures being finalized.
Dalia explained that departure procedures would begin on Sunday afternoon, pointing out that there are many vessels, around 65, so the launch may take some time, but they would finally set sail on April 26.
She added that the flotilla would be headed first for Greece. “That will be our first stop given the unclear geopolitical situation in the Mediterranean due to the war between Israel and Iran. We will rely on intermediate stops to assess the situation.”
