The expedition, which aims to break the blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid, symbolically set sail on Sunday at 13:30. However, the vessels will not proceed to their next scheduled stop in Sicily, but will instead dock in a port near Barcelona for one or two days, awaiting better conditions to enter international waters.
This new Flotilla comprises about 70 ships and over 1,000 participants from 70 countries, with the goal of raising awareness about the Palestinian conflict. Support vessels include that of the NGO Proactiva Open Arms, led by Òscar Camps, and Greenpeace's Arctic Sunrise.
“"In the flotilla there are stubborn and persistent people, who will not only bring humanitarian aid; today, the little humanity left in Europe will also embark. We set sail because governments have failed."
The Catalan delegation includes figures such as the former mayor of Montcada i Reixac, Laura Campos (Comuns), and trade unionists Ariadna Masmitjà 'Masmi' and Jordi Gassiot, both from Intersindical. Comuns MEP, Jaume Asens, who is not participating in the expedition, has called on the Spanish government to send a military frigate to escort the Flotilla.
“"The genocide has not stopped in Gaza."
For her part, CUP deputy Pilar Castillejo, who participated in a similar expedition last summer, has urged the Generalitat to exercise its sovereignty and implement boycott, divestment, and sanctions actions against Israel.
