Global Sumud Flotilla Returns Barcelona Due to Stormy Weather

The Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission comprising around 20 to 30 boats from over 40 countries including activists like Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau, was forced to return to Barcelona shortly after setting sail due to severe stormy weather and strong north winds. The flotilla aims to break the Israeli naval blockade of Gaza, which has caused severe food insecurity and restricted essential supplies to over one million Palestinians. Organizers cited safety concerns for the smaller vessels amid winds exceeding 56 km/h as the reason for the delay, with a meeting planned to determine when to resume the journey. The mission has received broad political and public support, including from left-wing parties in Barcelona, despite warnings of potential Israeli military interventions and past incidents of Israel intercepting similar aid missions. Israel maintains the blockade is necessary to prevent weapon smuggling to Hamas, dismissing such flotillas as propaganda. The flotilla's departure highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza exacerbated by Israel's blockade and recent military offensives.