Aid Flotilla with Greta Thunberg Set to Depart for Gaza Today

URGENT UPDATE: A humanitarian aid flotilla, featuring renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg, is poised to depart from Barcelona today at approximately 4 PM Irish time. The Global Sumud Flotilla aims to “break the illegal siege of Gaza” and establish a vital humanitarian corridor amidst the escalating crisis.

The flotilla’s organizers have stated that multiple vessels will embark from the Spanish port, joining others expected to leave from Tunisian and various Mediterranean ports on September 4, 2025. The mission is projected to reach Gaza by mid-September, aiming to deliver crucial aid to those affected by the dire humanitarian situation.

Prominent figures involved include European lawmakers and public personalities like former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau. Among the Irish participants are comedian Tadhg Hickey and psychotherapist Caoimhe Butterly, with a notable People Before Profit TD announcing plans to join the flotilla in Tunisia. This initiative is dubbed “the largest solidarity mission in history,” according to Brazilian activist Thiago Avila, signaling a surge in international support for the Palestinian cause.

In a statement, left-wing Portuguese lawmaker Mariana Mortagua emphasized, “We understand that this is a legal mission under international law.” The flotilla identifies itself as an independent entity, not affiliated with any government or political party, embodying the Arabic term “Sumud,” meaning perseverance.

The urgency of this mission follows previous failed attempts to deliver aid to Gaza, where Israeli forces have blocked two separate missions this year. In June, twelve activists aboard the sailboat Madleen were intercepted by Israeli forces, leading to their detention and eventual expulsion. A subsequent effort in July resulted in the interception of twenty-one activists aboard the vessel Handala.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with the United Nations declaring a state of famine this month. Reports indicate that over 500,000 people face severe conditions, heightening the importance of this flotilla’s mission.

As this situation develops, the world watches closely, with the hope that this flotilla will successfully deliver much-needed aid to the people of Gaza. Stay tuned for updates as the flotilla sets sail and the human impact unfolds.