Greece joined Italy in appealing to the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) to accept the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s offer to safely deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, avoiding a confrontation with Israeli forces. The Greek Foreign Ministry’s statement urged the flotilla, which includes activists like Greta Thunberg, to transfer its supplies to the Patriarchate for distribution, emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution. “Accept the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s offer to safely deliver aid intended in solidarity with the children, women, and men of Gaza,” the appeal read, as reported by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on X.
Spain has also requested the flotilla not to continue its course, aligning with calls from Israel and the international community to divert vessels to ports like Ashkelon or Cyprus for inspection. The GSF, comprising 41 boats with 400 activists, has rejected these proposals, insisting on breaking Israel’s naval blockade to deliver aid directly to Gaza. The flotilla’s leaders have accused Israel of harassment, including drone attacks and radio hijacking, claims Israel denies, labeling the convoy a “Hamas Flotilla” due to alleged terror ties.
This coordinated pressure from European nations reflects growing concerns over escalation in the region, where Israel’s blockade, enforced since 2007, aims to prevent weapons smuggling by Hamas. The Patriarchate’s offer, supported by Italy and Greece, provides a humanitarian pathway, but the flotilla’s defiance risks a repeat of the 2010 Mavi Marmara incident. As the convoy approaches Gaza waters, the UN and EU have called for restraint, with fears of a naval standoff.
