The Freedom Flotilla does not intend to stop. The next group of volunteers will sail to Gaza

The Freedom Flotilla has no intention of stopping. The next group of volunteers is heading to Gaza

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has announced the launch of its next international mission aimed at breaking Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. According to the organization, the ships will call at a number of European ports and attempt to reach the coast of Gaza in October.

The coalition decided to carry out the new mission despite activists being detained and facing violence in previous attempts. The organization claims that Israeli forces beat activists, used tasers, and even committed sexual assault during previous missions. The coalition also called on the international community not to remain indifferent to this issue, stating that Israel is restricting the entry of food, medicine, and fuel into Gaza.

"The Freedom Flotilla is taking to the sea again because our governments have still not fulfilled their obligations," said Zohar Chamberlain Regev, a member of the organization's steering committee.

It is reported that the vessel Handala II visited Norway, Sweden, and Denmark in June and July. Meanwhile, the vessel Kate set off from Bristol, UK, earlier this month and stopped in Ireland, Germany, and France. The flotilla will also call at ports in Spain, Portugal, and Italy before heading to Gaza.

The mission involves human rights defenders, trade union activists, journalists, medical workers, and other professionals who actively support Palestine. Meetings with local residents and public events are planned at each port.

The organization asked governments to stop supplying weapons and energy resources to Israel, restrict diplomatic and military cooperation, and impose sanctions. It also demanded that conditions be created for the safe and unhindered passage of the flotilla's vessels.

"We know that sailing towards Gaza poses a serious risk. But silence and inaction will lead to an even greater cost for Palestinians and the whole world," said mission participant Edward DiGilio, an American engineer.

The Freedom Flotilla has previously attempted to reach Gaza by sea several times. However, Israeli forces stopped and detained the international activists. In particular, in 2010, 10 activists were killed when the Israeli military raided the vessel Mavi Marmara.

The Global Sumud flotilla, organized in 2025, was also stopped by Israeli forces. According to the organization, at least 15 boats were seized and the activists on board were detained. The same scenario was repeated in 2026.