Dozens of ships carrying humanitarian aid are preparing to set sail from Mediterranean ports later this month in the largest maritime effort in over 17 years to challenge the Israeli blockade of Gaza. The fleet brings together activists, artists, and public figures from more than 44 countries, including Swedish environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg and American actress Susan Sarandon, alongside thousands of humanitarian workers, doctors, and volunteers.

Organizers stress that the mission is entirely civilian, independent, and non-political, aiming to enforce the United Nations Charter’s prohibition on denying food to civilians, even in wartime. Hussein Dormaz, coordinator of the Turkish delegation, said the initiative unites multiple international coalitions, including the “Freedom Fleet” and the “Steadfastness Convoy,” and called on the world to act against what he described as the unbearable humanitarian suffering in Gaza.

Despite Israeli attempts to obstruct the voyage and portray participants as extremists, organizers insist the fleet will press on to deliver critical food and medical supplies to over two million residents trapped under the blockade. Since October 7, 2023, Gaza has suffered what international observers describe as genocide, with more than 215,000 casualties, widespread destruction, starvation, and mass displacement, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian intervention.