Pro-Palestinian activists revealed that a flotilla of 10 vessels departed from Sicily, southern Italy, on Saturday, with 60 people on board including elected officials from nine nations, according to AFP.
The vessels will join the Global Sumud Flotilla that is currently heading to Gaza to break the Israel’s illegal blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to the Palestinian enclave.
“For the most part, our boats carry medical supplies, dry food and school equipment, as this was highlighted as some of the biggest priorities by Palestinians on the ground,” organizers said.
The vessels carry officials from the European Parliament and from countries including Belgium, France, Ireland, Spain and the United States.
Israeli Warnings
On Friday, the Global Sumud Flotilla was set to leave Greek waters and head towards Gaza amid Israel’s growing warnings, according to Reuters.
Despites Israel’s plans to block the boats’ access to the Palestinian enclave, the organizers announced that they are on their way to Gaza to break the naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aids to Gazans.
“We are not just delivering humanitarian aid. We are trying to deliver hope and solidarity, to send a strong message that the world stands with Palestine,” climate activist Greta Thunberg said.
The vessel’s journey across the Mediterranean has sparked international tensions, particularly after it reported drone attacks that targeted its boats.
In response, Italy and Spain have deployed naval ships to protect their citizens and other Europeans aboard the flotilla.
Moreover, Greek authorities said they would ensure the safe sailing of the flotilla off the country.
The flotilla has accused Israel of attacking its boats. However, Israel’s Foreign Ministry did not respond directly to the accusation. Instead, it invited the ship to drop humanitarian aids on Israel and Israeli authorities will deliver them to Gaza, or face consequences.
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