International Aid Flotilla Resumes Journey To Gaza After Repairs In Greece

An international aid flotilla aiming to challenge Israel’s naval blockade and deliver assistance to Gaza has resumed its journey after several days in Greek waters for repairs.

Organisers confirmed that the mission now includes Greek vessels, bringing the total to 47 civilian boats. They described the operation as “complete” and said they sail “with hope in their hearts” for Gaza.

The flotilla includes around 40 Italians and activists from dozens of other countries, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg. The mission plans to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza in the coming week despite warnings from some governments about the risks involved.

Last Wednesday, the flotilla was targeted in international waters off Crete by drones carrying stun grenades and irritants. The attack caused damage to vessels but no injuries.

The Handala has just been illegally intercepted by the Zionist entity of Israel while carrying baby formula to starving children pic.twitter.com/2awEkXXLwp

— Thiago Ávila (@thiagoavilabr) July 26, 2025

Earlier, Israel stated that it would use all necessary measures to stop vessels from reaching Gaza, justifying its blockade as a security measure in response to Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which killed around 1,200 people and took 251 hostages to Gaza. Gaza’s health authorities say more than 65,000 people have died in the Israeli offensive since then.

Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reiterated a proposal made last week that the flotilla dock in Cyprus so aid could be distributed to Gaza through the Roman Catholic Church.

The flotilla rejected this idea, insisting that their goal is to reach Gaza directly. Tajani cautioned that approaching Israeli waters “is dangerous” and warned about unpredictable outcomes.

Italy and Spain have deployed navy ships near the flotilla to assist with rescue and humanitarian needs if required. The flotilla organisers emphasise that the mission is both a humanitarian initiative and a symbolic stand against the blockade of Gaza, calling it an act of solidarity with the people there.

Reference: Reuters

Source: Maritime Shipping News