A major international civilian flotilla is set to sail for Gaza at the end of March 2026, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid and highlight the ongoing restrictions imposed on the besieged enclave. Organisers say the mission will also draw attention to the continued targeting of civilians and infrastructure despite the formal ceasefire in place since October 2025.

The Sumud Global Flotilla will bring together more than 3,000 volunteers from around 100 countries aboard over 100 vessels, departing mainly from Barcelona, with additional ships joining from Spain, Italy and Tunisia. Alongside aid supplies, the flotilla will carry medical personnel, engineers and teams documenting the aftermath of the genocidal war, seeking to record violations against civilians. A parallel overland convoy is planned, aiming to reach Gaza via the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border.

The announcement, made at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg, emphasised international solidarity and historical support for the Palestinian people. Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, addressed attendees, urging widespread mobilisation to ensure humanitarian access to Gaza through multiple routes. Organisers report that hundreds of Palestinians have been killed and thousands remain trapped without access to medical evacuation since the ceasefire took effect, highlighting the urgent need for unrestricted aid.

Despite international calls, Israel has suspended numerous humanitarian organisations and maintained strict limitations at border crossings, making the flotilla’s mission both symbolic and critical in providing relief and documenting ongoing abuses.