The Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led mission carrying aid to Gaza, has been largely intercepted by the Israeli navy, leaving just one vessel — the Marinette — still at sea. According to tracker data, 44 boats departed last month intending to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
Of these, 21 have been confirmed intercepted, 20 are listed as “assumed intercepted,” and three others remain sailing, including two legal support vessels.
The Marinette, sailing under the Polish flag with six passengers, was recorded at position 31.7743 N, 33.0612 E early Friday morning, moving at just over 1 knot after earlier engine issues were repaired. Organisers praised the crew’s resolve, saying the boat “refuses to turn back” despite knowing the fate of its sister ships.
Israeli authorities declared the flotilla mission “over,” insisting that none of the boats breached what it considers a lawful blockade. The Foreign Ministry said participants were being safely deported to Europe.
Flotilla organisers, however, accuse Israel of piracy and violations of international law, noting that hundreds of participants from 47 countries have been detained. Among them are Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and South African politician Mandla Mandela.
The Marinette’s captain confirmed the crew is aware of the risks as they enter what activists call a “high-risk zone.” Turkish participant Sinan Akılotu released a video declaring, “We are heading toward one of two noble outcomes.”
The flotilla insists its mission is humanitarian, carrying food, medical supplies, water filters, and baby formula. The United Nations has warned that famine is taking hold in Gaza, where nearly 67,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began in October 2023.
