350 miles to Gaza: Sumud Flotilla nears Gaza coast amid 'Israeli' threats
The Global Sumud Flotilla, an international effort to break the 18-year of 'Israeli' blockade on the Gaza Strip, is moving closer to its destination, with organizers saying the ships are now just 350 miles (under 500 kilometers) from the Gazan coast and could arrive within three days.
The update was shared by Nabil Chanoufi, a member of the flotilla’s steering committee, in remarks reported by Tunisia’s Mosaique FM.
Chanoufi added that Greece has deployed a warship to escort the flotilla, following similar moves by Spain and Italy, a sign of growing European involvement in the mission.
On the other side, 'Israel’s' public broadcaster reported that the flotilla is expected to reach Gaza’s shores within four days, coinciding with Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. 'Israeli' authorities have intensified both security and medical preparations ahead of the flotilla’s expected arrival.
According to the report, 'Israeli' naval special forces have recently conducted field exercises simulating the interception and boarding of ships in open waters, preparing for any attempt to breach the maritime blockade.
'Israeli' media also claimed that the government had offered flotilla organizers alternative routes for delivering humanitarian aid, through the port of Ashkelon, via Cyprus, or even through the Vatican, but these proposals were rejected. 'Israel' described the refusal as a “deliberate provocation.”
Meanwhile, 'Israel’s' Health Ministry has raised the state of alert in several hospitals in anticipation of possible clashes with the flotilla and potential casualties, particularly given the limited staffing during the Yom Kippur holiday.
The situation evokes memories of previous incidents involving the ships Madeleine and Handala, both of which were intercepted by 'Israeli' forces in June and July, respectively, before reaching Gaza.
In a related development, Turkey’s coast guard announced on Monday that it had evacuated hundreds of passengers from an aid ship preparing to sail toward Gaza as part of the flotilla, after a sudden water leak was discovered shortly after it departed port.
The flotilla, which set sail from Greek ports, consists of about 50 vessels in what organizers describe as the largest coordinated attempt yet to break the 'Israeli' blockade. More than 500 activists from 40 countries are taking part, under a coalition that includes the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Global Gaza Movement, and the “Steadfastness Convoy.”
The flotilla previously reported being about 825 kilometers from Gaza and said two drones had flown over its ships without launching any attacks.
Last Wednesday, organizers also reported that nine of their ships had been hit by 12 explosions caused by drone strikes, resulting in material damage to several vessels.
