Statement originally published by the Global Sumud Flotilla social media accounts.
September 5, 2025
Menorca, Spain — The Global Sumud Flotilla remains steadfast in its mission to break the illegal siege of Gaza, deliver vital humanitarian aid, and bring attention to Palestine, despite maritime challenges and escalating threats from Israeli officials.
Mission Update: At Sea and Advancing Toward Gaza
The Flotilla has departed Menorca, and the majority of vessels are now en route to Tunis. Additional boats—including two of the four that underwent storm-related repairs in Barcelona—are preparing to rejoin the fleet. Enhanced safety checks and operational protocols are being carried out as the flotilla prepares for the next leg of its voyage.
Tunisia and Sicily have adjusted their flotilla launch schedules slightly following delays experienced by the Barcelona fleet. On September 7, dozens of vessels will set sail from the ports of Catania and Tunis, joining the Barcelona fleet in a powerful, united action to challenge Israel’s unlawful siege of Gaza.
Global Solidarity and Support
The flotilla is bolstered by unprecedented global backing from unions, governments, and international organizations:
- 100+ Global Lawmakers: A joint letter signed by current and former elected officials —including parliamentarians, senators, and mayors—calls for:
○ The creation of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza
○ Full protection of the civilian mission
○ Immediate international action to uphold humanitarian law - Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, recently affirmed that the flotilla’s mission, “fully complies with international law.”
- Dockworkers in the Port of Genoa pledged to block all shipments to Israel if contact with the flotilla is severed. As one representative stated: “If they block the flotilla, we block everything.”
- President Gustavo Petro of Colombia wrote in a message of solidarity: “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.”
We call on the international community, UN bodies, and governments to:
- Ensure safe passage for the Global Sumud Flotilla
- Protect all participants from unlawful detention and intimidation
- Uphold the right to humanitarian maritime access to Gaza
- Demand an end to Israel’s illegal siege and ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people
- Support transparency by encouraging independent media and observers to accompany the mission
Powered by People, Rooted in Grassroots
The Global Sumud Flotilla is not funded by corporations, governments, or political parties; it is autonomous and sustained by thousands of ordinary people committed to ending the siege and genocide of the Palestinian people. This mission has been made possible through donations from families, communities, and individuals around the world who refuse to stand by in the face of injustice.
Our coalition brings together grassroots organizations, doctors, humanitarians, activists, lawyers, artists, and everyday people united by a shared belief: that Palestinians deserve to live with dignity, freedom, and humanity. Together, we embody a global conscience in action, moving as one toward Gaza to break the siege, deliver lifesaving aid, and work together as civilians to do what governments and international institutions have failed to do.
Contact Information:
Email: media@globalsumudflotilla.org
Social Media: @globalsumudflotilla
Number: +44 1414 620 950
