In a bold display of international solidarity, the Global Sumud Flotilla, led by civilians disembarked from Barcelona and Athens in late September, sailed across the Mediterranean Sea to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza and provide humanitarian aid to civilians along the Gaza Strip.

The flotilla carried activists, journalists, and humanitarian workers from more than 40 countries, including Greta Thunberg, a Swedish activist, Ada Colau, former Barcelona mayor, and many others. The organizers claim that this voyage is a movement of Gaza’s civilians, who have faced years of restriction on essential goods such as food, medicine, and clean water.

“We are also trying to send a message to the people of Gaza that the world has not forgotten about you.” Said Greta Thunberg according to an article written 15 September, by AFP and ToI Staff, on The Times Of Israel.

Many claim the voyage as a symbol of global unity. Despite facing blockades, drone threats, and detainment, the flotilla’s members have continued to emphasize peace.

Israel has intercepted almost all of the flotilla’s 44 boats, about 42.5 nautical miles from Gaza’s coast. 171 activists from the flotilla have been deported, and others are being held in detention centers.