New Delhi, October 2, 2025 — The Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission comprising 497 activists from 46 countries, encountered a significant escalation in its efforts to deliver aid to Gaza as Israeli naval forces deployed water cannons against the Yulara and Meteqe vessels in international waters. This development was captured in a live video report by activist Greg from the Owyla boat, highlighting the intensifying confrontation.
The flotilla, which set sail from Spain on August 31, aims to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza by delivering essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine. The mission has been met with resistance, including reports of ramming incidents involving other ships like Mango and Grande Blu, and the potential detention of activists on board.In the video, Greg reported that the Mateke and Ulara were hit with water cannons, describing the action as an escalation in terms of violence. He noted the presence of a massive cargo ship, suspected to be plotting a course from Ashdod to Ashdod, possibly to accommodate detainees. The situation is further complicated by the continuous buzzing of a patrol boat around the flotilla, adding to the tension.
The international community has reacted strongly to these developments. Worldwide protests have erupted in cities such as Istanbul, London, and Rome, with demonstrators condemning Israel's actions as violations of international maritime law. In Italy, unions have called for a general strike on October 3 to express solidarity with the flotilla and to protest against what they describe as an act of aggression.The Global Sumud Flotilla's mission has been part of a broader effort to challenge the blockade of Gaza, which has been criticized by human rights groups and international bodies for constituting collective punishment.
The flotilla's journey has been marked by previous interceptions and attacks, including drone strikes in May and naval interceptions in June and July 2025.
As the situation unfolds, the humanitarian and legal implications of Israel's actions continue to draw global attention, with calls for adherence to international law and the protection of civilian-led initiatives aimed at alleviating the crisis in Gaza.
The flotilla, which set sail from Spain on August 31, aims to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza by delivering essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine. The mission has been met with resistance, including reports of ramming incidents involving other ships like Mango and Grande Blu, and the potential detention of activists on board.In the video, Greg reported that the Mateke and Ulara were hit with water cannons, describing the action as an escalation in terms of violence. He noted the presence of a massive cargo ship, suspected to be plotting a course from Ashdod to Ashdod, possibly to accommodate detainees. The situation is further complicated by the continuous buzzing of a patrol boat around the flotilla, adding to the tension.
The international community has reacted strongly to these developments. Worldwide protests have erupted in cities such as Istanbul, London, and Rome, with demonstrators condemning Israel's actions as violations of international maritime law. In Italy, unions have called for a general strike on October 3 to express solidarity with the flotilla and to protest against what they describe as an act of aggression.The Global Sumud Flotilla's mission has been part of a broader effort to challenge the blockade of Gaza, which has been criticized by human rights groups and international bodies for constituting collective punishment.
The flotilla's journey has been marked by previous interceptions and attacks, including drone strikes in May and naval interceptions in June and July 2025.
As the situation unfolds, the humanitarian and legal implications of Israel's actions continue to draw global attention, with calls for adherence to international law and the protection of civilian-led initiatives aimed at alleviating the crisis in Gaza.