Freedom Flotilla Departs Italy for Gaza Amidst Warnings and Reported Attacks

Flotilla Sets Sail from Sicily

A new contingent of the Freedom Flotilla, comprising 10 civilian ships, departed on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from the port of San Giovanni Li Cuti in Catania, Sicily, Italy. This latest effort, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) and the Thousand Madleens to Gaza (TMTG), is destined for Gaza with the stated aim of breaking the Israeli blockade and delivering humanitarian aid. Approximately 70 activists from more than 20 countries are on board, including nine elected parliamentarians from Europe and the United States. The Italian delegation alone includes 58 Italian citizens, among them two Members of the European Parliament and two members of the Italian Parliament.

Italian Government Issues Warnings and Protection Measures

The departure comes despite explicit warnings from Italian officials. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani addressed parliament, stating that Italy would closely monitor the flotilla's progress and provide consular and diplomatic assistance to its citizens. Tajani also reportedly contacted Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to emphasize the importance of respecting the rights of Italian participants. He cautioned that 'entering Gaza waters is completely inadvisable' and warned that 'no one will be able to guarantee safety and help in case something happens' once the flotilla leaves international waters. In response to reported drone attacks on other vessels associated with the broader Global Sumud Flotilla, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto condemned the incidents and dispatched the Italian Navy's frigate Fasan towards the area for potential rescue operations, a decision communicated to Israel. Spain has also indicated it would send a patrol vessel to assist.

Mission Objectives and Humanitarian Aid

Organizers of the flotilla have articulated their mission as more than a charitable endeavor, framing it as part of a 'global struggle against apartheid and a reaffirmation of Palestinians' right to freedom'. The vessels are carrying essential humanitarian supplies, including medical supplies, dry food, and school equipment, identified as critical needs by Palestinians in Gaza. This new wave of boats intends to join the larger Global Sumud Flotilla, which consists of approximately 50 vessels and thousands of participants from over 44 countries, having set sail earlier in September. Notable figures like Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau are also reported to be part of the wider flotilla.

Reported Attacks and Israeli Stance

The Global Sumud Flotilla has reported multiple incidents of drone attacks, including the use of incendiary devices and communications jamming, particularly in international waters south of Greece and in Tunisian waters. These incidents have prompted calls for investigation from the UN Human Rights Office. Israel maintains that it will not permit vessels to enter an active combat zone or breach what it describes as a lawful naval blockade, which has been in place since 2007. Israel has offered an alternative for aid delivery, proposing that activists unload their supplies in an Israeli port for transfer to Gaza, and has previously dismissed such flotillas as 'publicity stunts', accusing organizers of links to Hamas, an accusation the organizers deny.