A humanitarian ship named "Madeleine" has set sail from Sicily towards Gaza, marking a bold new effort to challenge Israel’s 17-year naval blockade. Organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the mission departs 15 years after the deadly Mavi Marmara assault, aiming to deliver aid and raise awareness about what organisers call the collective punishment of Gaza’s population.

The departure follows last month’s mysterious drone strike on the "Dameer" vessel off Malta’s coast, which has heightened security concerns. No party has claimed responsibility for that attack, and Maltese authorities have yet to release investigation findings.

This latest flotilla includes prominent international figures such as Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, Irish actor Liam Cunningham, and French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan, who was previously denied entry into Israel. Speaking before departure, Thunberg condemned the “systematic starvation” in Gaza, while Cunningham urged moral action over silence.

Israeli media outlets report that the mission is being closely monitored by Israeli security forces, though no official statement has been issued. The flotilla’s launch has already sparked diplomatic ripples amid growing scrutiny of Israel’s siege policies.

Despite the risks, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition says it remains determined to deliver aid and draw attention to Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe. Organisers have called on the international community to observe the mission’s progress and ensure the safety of all participants.