Gaza Aid Flotilla with Greta Thunberg Forced Back to Barcelona by Storms

A flotilla of around 20 boats, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and participants from 44 countries, was forced to return to port in Barcelona due to severe stormy weather and strong winds, delaying their attempt to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza. The Global Sumud Flotilla, described as the largest international civil humanitarian movement to challenge the blockade and deliver aid, emphasized safety concerns for smaller vessels as the reason for the delay. This mission marks Thunberg's second attempt this year to reach Gaza by sea, following her deportation in June by Israeli forces. The flotilla carried food, medicine, and humanitarian aid amid escalating Israeli military actions and a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where famine and malnutrition have become critical issues. Israeli officials held security meetings to discuss strategies against the flotilla, which has faced opposition due to Israel's blockade policies and the ongoing conflict. Despite the setback, additional vessels from the Mediterranean were expected to join the mission in the coming days.