Dozens of boats carrying activists and aid for Palestinians in Gaza have departed from Barcelona, Spain. Organizers call it the largest civilian-led mobilization of its kind against Israeli actions.
Nearly 40 boats left Barcelona, with others joining from Mediterranean ports. The mission, delayed by bad weather, aims to revive attention to the plight of Gazans, as activists state governments have failed to act.
Despite a six-month-old ceasefire, Israeli attacks have reportedly killed hundreds. Gaza residents continue to live amidst ruins, facing severe shortages of food and medicine, with limited aid access. Israel maintains a blockade, citing security concerns, which critics decry as collective punishment.
This flotilla follows a similar attempt last autumn, which was intercepted by Israeli authorities. Activists hope this mission will highlight the dire conditions in Gaza, which was ravaged by the recent war. Organizations like Greenpeace Spain and Open Arms are supporting the flotilla, emphasizing the right of Palestinians to exist and thrive.