Global Humanitarian Flotilla Departs Barcelona for Gaza, Challenges Blockade Amid Worsening Crisis

A large flotilla of ships, carrying vital humanitarian aid and a host of international activists and celebrities, departed from Barcelona on Sunday, August 31, 2025, bound for the Gaza Strip. The mission aims to deliver desperately needed supplies and challenge the long-standing Israeli blockade of the Palestinian territory.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising approximately 20 boats and delegations from 44 countries, is reportedly the largest such attempt to date. On board are significant figures including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, actors Susan Sarandon and Liam Cunningham, and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau. They are transporting food, water, and medicine, demanding safe passage and the establishment of a humanitarian sea corridor.

The departure comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with experts warning of famine and catastrophic hunger affecting half a million people. The nearly 23-month conflict has claimed over 63,000 lives, with the Gaza Health Ministry reporting 332 Palestinian deaths from malnutrition, including 124 children. Israel’s offensive on Gaza City has intensified, further limiting aid deliveries, and an Israeli official recently indicated a potential halt or slowdown of humanitarian aid into parts of northern Gaza.

Organizers stated that more ships from ports in Italy, Greece, and Tunisia are expected to join the convoy, which is traveling from the western Mediterranean towards Gaza. Supporters gathered at the Barcelona pier, chanting ‘Free Palestine!’ and ‘Boycott Israel!’ as the diverse fleet, flying Palestinian flags, set sail.

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