Global Sumud Flotilla Delays Journey Amid Bad Weather in Support of Gaza

The Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission aimed at breaking the Israeli naval blockade of the Gaza Strip, has temporarily interrupted its journey due to adverse weather conditions. More than 20 boats carrying approximately 300 pro-Palestinian activists returned to port in Barcelona after setting sail on Sunday afternoon. Organizers announced that high winds and uncertain weather necessitated a precautionary return to port to ensure the safety of all participants. "Due to uncertain weather conditions, we conducted a test run and then returned to port to let the storm pass," stated a representative on social media. Plans to resume the journey are currently in place for Monday evening, contingent upon improving conditions. The Global Sumud Flotilla is touted as the largest operation of its kind to date, with its name meaning 'steadfastness' in Arabic. Among the notable figures on board is Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who has actively participated in previous solidarity actions. In June 2025, she faced an arrest attempt by Israeli soldiers during a similar initiative, about 200 kilometers off the coast of Gaza. The vessel was seized and taken to the Israeli port of Ashdod, where Thunberg and other activists were subsequently expelled. Historically, Israel has consistently intervened to prevent attempts by international activists to breach the naval blockade surrounding Gaza. The most recent effort, undertaken by an Italian ship in July, was also thwarted. The Global Sumud Flotilla aims to deliver much-needed supplies to the coastal territory, seeking to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis and support the Palestinian cause amid ongoing conflicts in the region. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2