Sixteen countries have issued a rare joint warning to Israel over the Global Sumud Flotilla, saying any assault, unlawful interference, or detention of its vessels would constitute a violation of international law. The flotilla, made up of ships from across Europe and North Africa, aims to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and highlight the worsening conditions there.

Joint Statement From Sixteen Countries

Foreign ministers from Türkiye, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, and Spain confirmed their citizens are among the participants. They emphasized that “any violation of international law and human rights of the participants in the flotilla, including attacks against the vessels in international waters or illegal detention, will lead to accountability.”

The statement urged restraint, adding that respect for humanitarian law and the protection of civilians are obligations shared by their governments.

Scale And Purpose Of The Mission

The Global Sumud Flotilla, described by organizers as the largest in years, departed Barcelona in late August with around 20 boats. Additional vessels have since joined from Italy, Greece, and Tunisia. The mission involves participants from 44 countries, including prominent figures such as climate activist Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau.

Organizers say the flotilla is not only delivering supplies but also drawing international attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where shortages of food, fuel, and medical aid have reached unprecedented levels.

International Legal And Political Context

The initiative comes amid ongoing debate over the legality of Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. Human rights groups and U.N. experts argue that restrictions on aid violate international law, while Israeli officials defend the blockade as a security measure to prevent arms smuggling.

Diplomats note that any violent confrontation at sea would escalate tensions further. Several governments have stated that if their nationals are harmed, they will pursue accountability through international forums, potentially including U.N. mechanisms or legal tribunals.

Recent Disruptions And Regional Reactions

Some vessels have faced logistical delays due to storms and port access. Others remain stationed off Italy and Greece, regrouping before the next phase of the voyage. Governments whose citizens are aboard are closely monitoring developments, with particular concern over possible interference before the flotilla approaches Gaza.

Alleged Drone Attacks In Tunisia

• The flotilla reported that a British-flagged ship named Alma was attacked by a drone while docked in Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia. The top deck sustained fire damage; fortunately, there were no injuries. This was the second alleged drone strike in two days.
• Another vessel, the Portuguese-flagged Family Boat (also known as Familia Madeira), had reportedly been struck earlier, causing a fire but no casualties. Activists claimed incendiary devices were dropped from a drone, while Tunisian authorities denied drone involvement, attributing the damage to an onboard fire.