The Global Sumud Flotilla is a fleet of more than 50 civilian boats carrying hundreds of international activists, including prominent figures and lawmakers, with the goal of delivering aid to Gaza and breaking Israel’s naval blockade.
On October 1, 2025, Israeli forces began intercepting and boarding the flotilla in international waters, detaining many of the activists on board and rerouting the vessels.
What is Global Sumud Flotilla?
The Global Sumud Flotilla started its journey in late August 2025, departing from ports in Spain and Italy before stopping in Greece and Tunisia as it made its way across the Mediterranean.
The mission began with more than 50 vessels representing at least 44 countries, carrying hundreds of international volunteers, activists and lawmakers including Pakistanis Senator Mushtaq Ahmed and the Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. Among them there are 24 Americans, and several military veterans.
Here are the details we know so far
- The Global Sumud Flotilla carrying aid for Gaza was attacked by Israeli forces on late night Wednesday, where former Pakistani Senator Mushtaq Ahmed got arrested with several other people.
- Israel intercepted a flotilla of boats carrying humanitarian aid, according to statements from the flotilla organisers.
- They reported that Israeli naval forces boarded the vessels about 70 nautical miles (130km) off the coast of Gaza, cutting all the communications with the world.
- As per media reports, in total, at least 13 vessels that are part of the flotilla have been intercepted at sea.
- The Flotilla’s progress had already drawn international attention because of its humanitarian gesture for people in Gaza
- Following the news of the interception protests sparked in many cities including Rome, Buenos Aires and Istanbul on Wednesday night.
- As of October 2, 2025, the detained activists were being transferred to an Israeli port, where they are expected to face deportation. Due to a holiday in Israel, the deportation process could be delayed, reported Al Jazeera.
Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin. The passengers are safe and in good health. pic.twitter.com/pzzitP5jN8
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 2, 2025
- Israel has sworn to stop the Gaza-bound flotilla claiming the volunteers are trying to “breach a lawful naval blockade”, but international law is clear on allowing humanitarian aid through.
Israel has blockaded Gaza to varying degrees since Hamas took control of the Strip since the war broke out. Gaza’s residents have largely been trapped in the territory since then, with the entry of food, goods and aid strictly controlled by Israel.
