Italy Retreats From Gaza Aid Flotilla Under Fear of ‘Israeli’ Attack
Rome halts naval escort amid fears of Zionist attack, but activists vow to press forward to Gaza
Italy, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Italy announced Tuesday that its naval frigate will withdraw from the Global Sumud Flotilla once the humanitarian convoy reaches 150 nautical miles from Gaza, citing the risk of confrontation with “Israel.”
The Italian Defense Ministry confirmed that its warship will not accompany the flotilla any further, stressing that this position had been conveyed “several times in recent days.”
The frigate is expected to issue two final warnings to flotilla participants, including one at midnight GMT, before turning back.
Activists Reject Rome’s Retreat
The Global Sumud Flotilla — made up of more than 40 civilian boats carrying parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg — remains determined to deliver aid directly to Gaza and break the blockade.
Italian spokesperson Maria Elena Delia said participants had been notified of the government’s withdrawal but emphasized that the flotilla would not turn back:
“We have no intention of heeding Italy’s warnings,” Delia stated, accusing authorities of trying to avoid a “diplomatic incident” with “Israel.”
She further warned that activists expect another Zionist strike in the coming hours:
“‘Israel’ will probably attack us tonight, because all the signals point to this happening,” she said in a video posted on Instagram.
Recent Drone Attack Raises Alarm
Just last week, the flotilla was assaulted by drones carrying stun grenades and chemical irritants in international waters off Greece.
While “Israel” declined to comment, Tel Aviv has consistently vowed to block any attempt to reach Gaza, continuing to enforce its siege that has already led to catastrophic humanitarian consequences.
According to Gaza health authorities, more than 66,000 Palestinians have been killed since the assault began.
Italy Calls for Diversion to Cyprus
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto issued what he described as a “final appeal” for the flotilla to unload its aid in Cyprus instead of Gaza, warning that participants could face arrest if intercepted by Zionist forces in international waters.
“The last appeal is to accept a solution that avoids unnecessary risks,” Crosetto said.
But flotilla organizers have rejected all diversion proposals, insisting that humanitarian supplies must be delivered directly to Gaza, not rerouted through third countries.
Flotilla Presses Ahead
Despite Italy’s withdrawal and escalating threats, the Global Sumud Flotilla has vowed to continue its journey toward Gaza.
Organizers and participants stress that their mission is a direct challenge to the illegal blockade and a stand of solidarity with the besieged Palestinian people. (PW)