On October 1, a multinational humanitarian flotilla including climate activist Greta Thunberg and Polish MP Franciszek Sterczewski was halted by Israeli forces, preventing any ships from entering the Gaza waterway.
Flotilla Attempted to Reach Gaza
The Global Sumud flotilla, a civil initiative that brought together politicians and activists, set out on 1 October toward Gaza. Among its passengers were climate activist Greta Thunberg and Polish deputy Franciszek Sterczewski.
Members of the flotilla hoped to break Israel’s maritime blockade and deliver humanitarian aid directly to Gaza.
Flotilla Did Not Reach Gaza
At sunset on 1 October, Israeli military vessels interfered with the flotilla, jamming its communications and navigation systems. By mid‑afternoon the Israeli Foreign Ministry declared that none of the yachts had entered the active war zone or broken the legal maritime blockade.
According to the ministry, the last ship of the flotilla remains stalled in distant waters; all passengers were reported safe and in good health.
Italian Strike Over Flotilla
Italian unions announced a 24‑hour nationwide strike to protest Israel’s interception of the flotilla. The strike is set for 21:00 on 2 October, following evening demonstrations in several cities.
Transport Minister Matteo Salvini threatened to prohibit the strike, while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said neither the flotilla nor the strike would benefit Palestinians, adding that they cause many problems for Italy and its government.
