Global Sumud Flotilla Returns to Barcelona Due to Stormy Weather

The Global Sumud Flotilla, a coalition of around 20 boats carrying humanitarian aid and activists from 44 countries, was forced to return to Barcelona due to severe weather conditions, including winds exceeding 55 kilometers per hour. This flotilla represents the largest maritime mission to Gaza to date, aiming to break the Israeli naval blockade and open a humanitarian corridor amid the ongoing Gaza war and humanitarian crisis. Activists, including prominent figures like Greta Thunberg, planned to reach Gaza by mid-September to deliver aid and raise awareness about the situation, which Israel describes as a security measure against Hamas. Previous attempts to deliver aid by sea have been blocked or intercepted by Israeli forces. Public reactions to the flotilla are mixed, with supporters emphasizing the urgent humanitarian need and critics arguing the mission could escalate tensions. The flotilla organizers intend to resume their journey once weather conditions improve, coordinating with additional vessels expected to depart from other Mediterranean ports.