n Wednesday, 24 September, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the deployment of a naval vessel to assist the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aims to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. This decision follows reports of drone attacks targeting the flotilla while it was navigating international waters off Greece, raising concerns over the safety of its participants, including prominent activist Greta Thunberg. The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising around 51 civilian boats, set sail from Barcelona with the goal of breaking the Israeli blockade of Gaza. As the flotilla continued its journey, it faced alarming incidents, with organizers claiming that over a dozen explosions were heard around their vessels, attributed to unidentified drones. In response to these threats, both Spain and Italy have committed to providing naval protection, emphasizing the need for safe passage in international waters. During a press conference at the UN General Assembly, Sánchez underscored the plight of the civilians aboard the flotilla, which includes citizens from 45 different countries. “We will ensure that our citizens can be rescued and safely brought back to Spain if necessary,” he stated. The flotilla’s mission is not merely a political statement; it…
Spain and Italy Dispatch Naval Ships to Support Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla Amid Drone Attacks
September 25, 2025
By Belal Nawar
Senior Journalist