Greta Thunberg’s latest attempt to sail humanitarian aid to Gaza hit setbacks almost immediately, with stormy conditions forcing the activist’s flotilla to return to Barcelona on Sunday.
The 70-boat fleet, organized by the Global Sumud Flotilla Mission, had departed Spain carrying activists, supplies, and media attention. Winds of up to 35 mph pushed the vessels back to port after a brief sea trial.
“We conducted a sea trial and then returned to port to allow the storm to pass,” organizers said in a statement, adding that the smaller boats could not risk complications.
No Port to Dock
Even if the flotilla resumes, experts doubt its ability to succeed.
“There aren’t any port facilities in Gaza to unload anything, and Gaza lacks a port sufficient to receive such a large flotilla,” said James Kraska, professor of maritime law. He noted that the U.S. previously spent $200 million building a temporary pier that had to be dismantled due to poor conditions.
Israel maintains a naval blockade along Gaza’s coast, which Kraska said is recognized under international law as a lawful wartime measure. “Israel will act to prevent ships from docking,” he said.
Israeli Officials on Alert
Thunberg’s first flotilla attempt ended in her detention and deportation. This time, Israeli officials are signaling a tougher response.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has reportedly urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to send Thunberg and other activists to “terrorist-level” detention centers if they attempt to breach the blockade.
Israel Hayom reported that Ben-Gvir also wants the flotilla ships converted into “maritime force” vessels for police use, warning activists would regret trying again.
Thunberg’s Stance
Thunberg framed the mission as humanitarian aid, saying in Barcelona: “The story here is about Palestine. The story here is how people are being deliberately deprived of the very basic means to survive.”
She accused Israel of “violating international law by unlawfully intercepting boats in international waters and preventing humanitarian aid from coming in.”
The flotilla includes several high-profile figures, among them Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham.
