The Global Sumud Flotilla departed Barcelona on April 12th as an international mission, now bolstered by additional vessels from Mediterranean ports, aiming to deliver aid to Gaza.
Polish Involvement in Spring Mission
Four Polish citizens are participating in the expedition, with Agata Wisłocka, an astrophysicist, and Łukasz Kozak, a philosopher and activist, confirmed as participants. Magda Górska is also reportedly involved, but with a different group, while Laura Kwoczała-Alsubaih is participating in a parallel land convoy through North Africa.
Planned Route and Growing Fleet
The flotilla is assembling as ships join from various ports following its departure from Barcelona, with a planned arrival near Gaza in early or mid-May. The mission is expected to be the largest of its kind, involving over 70 vessels and approximately 1,000 participants from numerous countries.
As of April 22nd, the flotilla is passing Sicily and heading directly towards the Gaza Strip, currently led by around 25 vessels with more en route.
Protest Against Ship Bound for Israel
Recent protests targeted a ship traveling to Israel, described by organizers as a spontaneous reaction against the use of the Mediterranean Sea for military logistics and supplying the Israeli arms industry. The protest caused a disruption to the ship’s route.
Following a Previous Failed Attempt
This mission follows a previous attempt that ended in failure, with Israeli authorities detaining and deporting participants, including Polish MP Franciszek Sterczewski. The incident drew criticism from Radosław Sikorski, who questioned whether the Polish state should cover the evacuation costs of individuals traveling to conflict zones.
Donald Tusk stated that Polish consular services would assist citizens as they would with any other national. Previous missions also attracted attention with the participation of Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau.
Parliamentary Involvement
Organizers have indicated that members of various parliaments are also involved in the current mission, with some names to be revealed as vessels depart from additional ports.
