The Union of Tribes of the Gaza Strip has welcomed the Sumud Flotilla, also known as the “Fleet of Steadfastness”, praising it as a courageous and blessed initiative determined to challenge the blockade of Gaza. In a statement, the Union said the flotilla sends a clear message to the world that Gaza is not alone and that the will of the free cannot be broken.

The Union affirmed that the homes and tents of Gaza’s people are open to the men and women of the flotilla. It stressed that Gazans will greet them with open hearts and hands, just as they have embraced the free voices of the world who have stood with Gaza in the past.

This mission, the Union said, is a step long awaited by every child and woman in Gaza. It renews hope for a besieged population that has endured years of hardship, and demonstrates that the cries of its people have reached the conscience of the free around the globe.

The Union called on all Palestinians to stand united behind the flotilla, and to show gratitude to the volunteers, activists, and supporters who have answered the call of duty and humanity. It described the mission as proof that when governments fail to act, ordinary people rise to shoulder the responsibility of defending justice and humanity.

In recent days, the Sumud Flotilla has resumed its journey after a storm forced a temporary stop in Menorca. The vessels are now sailing towards Tunisia, where they will be joined by additional boats, parliamentarians, trade unionists, and hundreds of international volunteers before continuing towards Gaza. Organisers have pledged that despite threats from Israeli officials, the mission remains firm in its goal to break the siege and deliver humanitarian relief to the Palestinian people.