The Global Sumud Flotilla has confirmed that its aid mission to Gaza has been delayed.
More than 40 boats carrying activists and prominent figures, including former President Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela, had set sail before the delay was announced.
Organisers explained that the decision was made to prioritise safety.
WEATHER STALLS FLOTILLA
A sea trial was conducted after concerns about unsafe weather conditions. However, the flotilla returned to port to wait out the storm.
“This meant delaying our departure to avoid risking complications with the smaller boats. Facing over 30-knot winds and the unpredictable nature of the Mediterranean, we made this decision to prioritise the safety and well-being of all participants and to safeguard the success of our mission,” the organisers said in a statement.
The Flotilla is an international coalition of civil society organisations, grassroots movements, and individuals. According to its organisers, it is committed to ending what it describes as Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza through nonviolent mobilisation.
The mission was set to take place in two waves, with the second set to depart on Thursday, 4 September. Numerous boats carrying medical supplies, nutritional aid, and solidarity crews will converge in the Mediterranean before attempting to reach Gaza.
ISRAEL RESPONDS
Global Sumud Flotilla plans to break Israel’s siege and deliver aid to Gaza. However, the Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, told the country’s parliament that the activists will be arrested and detained in prisons.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Ben-Gvir emphasised that the flotilla would be regarded as an attempt to undermine Israel’s sovereignty and support Hamas in Gaza.
DO YOU THINK THE GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA’S MISSION WILL BE SUCCESSFUL?
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