Greta Thunberg set sail from Barcelona on August 31, 2023, as part of a flotilla aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. This mission seeks to challenge Israel’s naval blockade, which has been in effect since 2007. The flotilla, comprising dozens of boats filled with food and essential supplies, departed amid a show of solidarity, with thousands of supporters gathering at the port to witness the event.
Supporters waved Palestinian flags and chanted messages such as “Free Palestine” and “It’s not a war, it’s a genocide.” Thunberg addressed the crowd, stating, “This is a mission to challenge the extremely violent, business-as-usual international system that is failing to uphold international law.” The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified calls for action from global leaders, particularly as reports indicate that parts of the territory are facing famine.
Previous Attempts and Current Challenges
This is not Thunberg’s first attempt to breach the blockade. In June, she and other activists tried to reach Gaza but were intercepted by Israeli forces, who seized their vessel and deported them. Israel defends the blockade as a necessary measure to prevent weapons smuggling to Hamas, labeling previous aid missions as propaganda efforts in support of the group.
Organizers of the current flotilla are determined to make a difference, blaming world leaders for their inaction regarding the blockade. “We cannot rely on governments that are prioritizing political interests over humanitarian needs,” said Yasemin Acar, a steering committee member. The flotilla is expected to grow as more boats depart from locations including Greece, Italy, and Tunisia, with aid being collected and shipped from various points.
Global Support and Aid Collection Efforts
In the Italian port of Genoa, local organizations have gathered approximately 250 metric tons of food for Gaza. Some of this aid was loaded onto boats departing from Genoa on the same day as Thunberg’s departure, while additional supplies are scheduled to be sent from Catania on September 4, 2023.
The ongoing blockade has continued through various conflicts, including the current war which erupted when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in over 1,200 fatalities and 251 hostages taken, according to Israeli reports. In response, Israel has conducted a military campaign in Gaza that has reportedly claimed more than 63,000 lives, predominantly civilians, plunging the region into a severe humanitarian crisis.
As the flotilla heads towards Gaza, it aims not only to deliver essential supplies but also to raise awareness of the dire conditions faced by its residents. The global community watches closely, with hopes that these efforts might compel international leaders to take action and allow much-needed aid into the besieged enclave.
