The departure of the Global Sumud Flotilla from Barcelona occurred months after a previous solidarity mission to Palestine. On August 31, 2025, hundreds of people gathered at the Port of Barcelona to bid farewell to the thirty vessels, which had to postpone their departure by one day due to adverse maritime conditions. The journey, which lasted for weeks, culminated in interception by Israeli forces before they could reach Gaza, an event that garnered significant international attention.
This flotilla received support from prominent cultural and political figures. Among the participants on board were well-known activists, both locally and internationally, including Greta Thunberg. Barcelonian politicians such as former mayor Ada Colau, ERC councilor Jordi Coronas, and CUP deputy Pilar Castillejo also joined the mission.
The crossing was not without difficulties, as the ships were subjected to several drone attacks. Finally, on October 1, 2025, the activists were detained by the Israeli army. This detention sparked a wave of protests everywhere. From Barcelona, Mayor Jaume Collboni demanded the immediate release of those detained, while street demonstrations against Israel's actions continued for several days.
“"The only rule was abuse."
The first activists were released on October 5. Upon their return, they publicly denounced the treatment they had received from Israel. The condemnation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza also led to a general strike on October 15, supported by unions demanding an international blockade against Israel. In Barcelona, some of the protests resulted in police charges and several arrests.
