UNITED NATIONS – Greece has pledged to ensure the safe sailing of civilian boats currently navigating its waters as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla aimed at breaking Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis confirmed on Thursday that Athens had informed Israel about Greek nationals participating in the flotilla.The Global Sumud Flotilla consists of around 50 civilian vessels, carrying activists, lawyers, and notable figures including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.
The flotilla’s mission is to challenge the blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.”There are a small number of boats currently in the waters of Crete, and we will guarantee the safe sailing,” Gerapetritis told Reuters at the U.N. General Assembly. He noted that Greece had informed the Israeli government about the involvement of Greek citizens and is closely monitoring the situation to ensure safety.
The flotilla has faced repeated drone attacks, including an assault by 12 drones in international waters near the Greek island of Gavdos, prompting Italy to dispatch a naval vessel to assist the convoy. Greece, however, has indicated it will not join Italian and Spanish naval support at this time but maintains a state of full alert.Although downplaying the recent drone incident, Gerapetritis said a full inquiry will be conducted to determine its cause and implications. “At the moment, it seems that it is safe, but we are on full alert about it,” he added.
The Global Sumud Flotilla represents the largest civilian-led maritime effort in history to confront the Gaza blockade, involving participants from more than 44 countries, aiming to draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.The flotilla mission has been met with strong opposition from Israel, which accuses activists of aiding Hamas, and has taken measures including military drills and plans to intercept the vessels. Meanwhile, several European countries including Italy and Spain have sent naval assets to protect the flotilla from attacks during its journey.