A new humanitarian convoy, the Global Sumud Flotilla, has set sail once again from southern Turkey in an effort to deliver aid to Gaza, despite previous interceptions by Israeli forces in international waters.
The renewed mission comes amid ongoing restrictions on aid access and heightened global attention on multiple regional conflicts.
The flotilla departed from the Turkish port of Marmaris on Thursday, marking its third attempt to reach Gaza with humanitarian supplies.
The group had earlier set sail from Spain on April 12, but vessels were intercepted by Israeli forces before reaching their destination. According to reports, more than 100 activists were taken to Crete, while two others were detained in Israel.
Previous interceptions at sea
Earlier missions organized by the same group were also stopped by Israeli authorities in international waters.
In previous incidents, activists say their vessels were redirected or detained before they could reach Gaza, preventing the delivery of aid.
The organizers argue that these interceptions have consistently blocked humanitarian assistance intended for civilians in the enclave.
Members of the flotilla say the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with aid not reaching people in sufficient quantities.
Susan Abdullah, a member of the steering committee, said global attention has shifted away from Gaza due to other regional developments.
“The blockade is still on. The aid is not coming in,” she said, stressing the urgency of the mission.
Activists from multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, have criticized their governments for not taking stronger action regarding previous interceptions.
British activist Katy Davidson said earlier flotilla attempts were stopped between Sicily and Crete and claimed that official responses were limited.
She added that even if the current mission is intercepted again, it would still help draw attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Commitment Despite media silence and risks
Participants in the flotilla say lack of media coverage will not stop their efforts.
Turkish activist Seyma Denli Yalvac stated that the group remains committed regardless of international attention, saying they will continue their mission even if it is not widely reported.
The flotilla organizers and international aid groups say supplies entering Gaza remain insufficient despite earlier ceasefire arrangements and aid guarantees.
According to humanitarian organizations, more than two million people in Gaza have been displaced, with many living in damaged buildings, temporary shelters, and open areas.
