The Global Sumud Flotilla has launched a massive aid convoy to Gaza from Barcelona with double participation. It was formed to break Israel’s blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid.
Global Sumud Flotilla doubles fleet to 70 boats
The Global Sumud Flotilla was created in 2025 by NGO representatives, activists, and volunteers from various countries. The flotilla launches its second mission to Gaza on 12 April.
The Barcelona-based fleet last sailed in September with 42 boats and 462 people. For this voyage, organisers have mobilised 70 boats and nearly 1,000 volunteers from 70 countries.
Spokesperson Pablo Castilla stated that the mission’s main goal is to demand accountability.
“ This is to condemn international complicity in what is happening in Gaza, demand accountability, and open a humanitarian corridor by sea and land,” Castilla said.
Castilla expressed concern that international attention has declined. This was due to recent attacks on Iran and military actions in Lebanon.
He also noted that Israel has intensified the blockade on Gaza, restricted aid entry, expanded settlements, and accelerated land confiscation.
Israeli forces attacked previous mission 70 nautical miles off Gaza coast
During the previous attempt in September, Israeli forces attacked the vessels. Organizers and the international community described it as an unlawful intervention.
Additionally, Israeli naval forces boarded the boats about 70 nautical miles (130 kilometres) off the Gaza coast. They cut communications and used drones to disrupt live broadcasts.
However, organizers have emphasised that they are acting within the law. They also note that they are coordinating closely with legal experts and maritime security specialists.
In a recent development, the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) declared that on March 29, 2026, a unified maritime flotilla and a parallel overland humanitarian convoy will depart simultaneously. The movement said it would mobilise thousands of volunteers from over 100 countries.
According to the coalition, this is in a direct response to genocide, mass starvation, and the systematic destruction of civilian life in Gaza.