Israeli forces stopped the Global Sumud Flotilla on its way to Gaza. To the world’s amusement, they arrested leading climate activist Greta Thunberg in the midst of the operation. That interception occurred approximately 75 miles north of Gaza’s coast. It mobilized massive international solidarity, and protests in Europe and Latin America forced the government to reverse its decision.
The Global Sumud Flotilla was bringing much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza and addressing the worsening situation in Palestine. Israeli naval ships reportedly blasted the flotilla with water cannons to prevent it from entering. Some of these boats were able to continue making progress even after the intercept. The Israeli military eventually forced most of those vessels to turn back and boarded several, including Thunberg and her friends.
As such, according to the Israeli foreign ministry, Thunberg and her compatriots can be considered “safe and healthy.” From artists and entertainment professionals to community activists and policymakers, people are speaking out. They’re now asking the courts to find the Israeli military’s actions unlawful.
The Mexican Foreign Relations Ministry released a statement underscoring that the flotilla’s intent was strictly humanitarian, thereby making it a neutral initiative. They described the participants as “people in solidarity, peaceful and committed to peace, without links to violent groups.” The ministry further emphasized the need to observe international law, international humanitarian and human rights.
Artistic activists and environmentalists Thousands marched in Rome to demonstrate their support for the Global Sumud Flotilla. In the meantime, protests broke out in Brussels. These protests underscored the increasing international outrage at Israel’s bombardment and the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
In June, Colombian President Gustavo Petro took a courageous step in this direction. As a result, he announced that all Israeli diplomats should pack their bags and vacate Colombia, after Israel had intercepted the peace flotilla. This move reflects a growing discontent among countries towards Israel’s recent actions and represents a further diplomatic strain between Colombia and Israel.
A former head of the Middle East department at the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office accused Israel of ethnic cleansing. He continued that the interception is “clearly illegal.” This view seems to be consistent with the growing demands for accountability for military actions that negatively affect humanitarian efforts.
In Italy, labor unions have responded by calling for a general strike in support of Palestine following the flotilla’s interception. Now the strike increases the voices calling for humanitarian aid and support for the people of Gaza. It demonstrates their serious commitment to tackling this crisis.
As unrest continues around the world, the Sumud Flotilla’s message finds a way to connect with everyone on that journey toward justice. The situation remains fluid, with many monitoring developments closely as governments and organizations respond to this latest chapter in the ongoing conflict.