Global Sumud Flotilla Sets Sail from Tunisia to Challenge Israel's Gaza Siege
BIZERTE, TUNISIA - A massive international flotilla, the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), departed from Tunisia's northern port of Bizerte on September 13, 2025, bound for the Gaza Strip in a bold challenge to Israel's long-standing blockade. The convoy of over 40 vessels, carrying more than 500 activists from over 40 countries, aims to deliver humanitarian aid and break the siege.
"This is not just about delivering aid; it's about breaking the psychological barrier that has been imposed on the Palestinian people," said Rima Hassan, a Franco-Palestinian lawmaker who joined the flotilla after boarding in Tunis. "We will not be deterred by Israel's threats or intimidation."
The GSF is the largest international effort to date to challenge Israel's blockade of Gaza, which has been in place since 2007. The convoy includes sailboats, cargo ships, and other vessels, each carrying a diverse group of activists from around the world.
"We are not just here to deliver aid; we are here to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people," said Amira El-Fadel, an Egyptian activist who is part of the flotilla. "We will not be silenced or deterred by Israel's attempts to isolate Gaza."
The blockade has had a devastating impact on Gaza's economy and infrastructure, leaving millions of Palestinians without access to basic necessities like food, water, and medical care.
"This siege is a form of collective punishment that is in direct contravention of international law," said Hassan. "We will not stand idly by while the Palestinian people suffer under this blockade."
The GSF's journey is expected to take several weeks, with the convoy facing potential challenges from Israel, including naval blockades and attempts to intercept the vessels.
"We are aware of the risks involved, but we are determined to see this through," said El-Fadel. "We will not be deterred by Israel's threats or intimidation."
The Global Sumud Flotilla is seen as a significant development in the international community's efforts to pressure Israel to lift its blockade and allow for greater access to Gaza.
"This flotilla is a powerful symbol of global solidarity with the Palestinian people," said Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian politician who has been advocating for an end to the blockade. "We hope that this effort will bring attention to the suffering of the Palestinian people and put pressure on Israel to lift its siege."
The GSF's journey is being closely watched by international observers, with many countries issuing statements in support of the flotilla.
"The United States has long called for an end to the blockade and greater access to Gaza," said a State Department spokesperson. "We welcome this effort and hope that it will bring attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza."
As the GSF continues its journey, activists are calling on governments around the world to take action to pressure Israel to lift its blockade.
"We urge all governments to support our efforts and demand an end to the siege," said Hassan. "We will not rest until the Palestinian people have access to their basic rights and freedoms."
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
