With 25 boats joining in Italy, Global Sumud Flotilla expands by 50%

Vessels from Barcelona and various parts of Italy joined the Global Sumud Flotilla at Marina di Siracusa on Thursday, with organisers stating that the addition of 25 boats expanded the fleet by about 50%, significantly strengthening the mission as it prepares to continue toward Gaza.

Organisers indicated that the flotilla has already surpassed the scale of last year’s mission, which they said reflects growing international participation and increasing civilian pressure to challenge what they described as Israel’s ‘illegal’ blockade of Gaza. They added that the mission is expected to grow further, with two more ports scheduled ahead, allowing for greater coordination and visibility, Maktoob Media reported.

According to the group, the convergence in Siracusa represented both a logistical achievement and a political signal, suggesting that the flotilla is expanding and adapting as it moves forward.

Meanwhile, an international parliamentary conference held in Brussels on Wednesday brought together politicians and activists from multiple countries in support of the flotilla amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Participants called for the creation of an internationally supervised maritime aid corridor and urged measures such as halting arms transfers to Israel and suspending the EU–Israel Association Agreement.

Discussions at the conference focused on the “Brussels Declaration,” which, according to participants, advocates a UN-backed sea corridor based on international law and affirms Palestinians’ rights to access their land and waters while leading reconstruction efforts independently.

Speakers at the event emphasised that the gathering was intended to build coordinated political pressure rather than serve as a symbolic gesture. They argued against what they described as the normalisation of impunity and linked justice for Palestinians to broader global concerns about fairness in the international system. Sessions also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the role of civil society, and policy measures aimed at accountability and restricting arms flows.

The event saw participation from members of the European Parliament, national lawmakers, and activists. Among those present were Francesca Albanese and Sira Rego. Organisers also announced plans for a march toward the European Parliament to increase both public and political pressure.

They further stated that delegations from 56 countries have committed to joining what is being described as the largest maritime mission of its kind.

Beyond delivering humanitarian aid, organisers said the initiative also aims to maintain a sustained civilian presence in Gaza, with teams of medical professionals, engineers, and investigators expected to support the rebuilding of healthcare systems and essential infrastructure while working alongside local communities during the ongoing conflict.

In a related development, activists involved in the flotilla reported that they had intercepted the vessel MSC Maya, alleging that it was transporting materials linked to Israeli weapons destined for the ports of Ashdod and Haifa.