Wael Nawar, a participant in the Global Freedom Flotilla to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza, announced Friday that ships will depart within hours from the Greek island of Crete bound for Gaza, with the expected time of arrival at the Palestinian coast early next week.

The flotilla consists of around 50 civilian boats carrying lawyers, parliamentarians, and activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Organizers say the mission is aimed at breaking the long-standing naval blockade imposed by the Israeli occupation on Gaza, a move that the Israeli occupation strongly opposes.

Earlier this week, flotilla organizers claimed their convoy came under attack by drones in the Mediterranean, an incident they accused “Israel" of. No injuries were reported, but the episode prompted Italy and Spain to dispatch naval vessels to assist their nationals and other Europeans on board.

Greek authorities confirmed they would ensure the safe departure of the ships in Greek waters, but once in the eastern Mediterranean, the flotilla will return to international waters, where the risks increase.

Italy urges participants to withdraw

Italy has proposed a compromise, suggesting that the humanitarian aid be delivered in Cyprus and then distributed inside Gaza by the Catholic Church’s Latin Patriarchate of occupied al-Quds. While the Israeli regime welcomed the idea, flotilla organizers rejected it.

The Italian Foreign Ministry also warned its citizens taking part in the mission not to continue, offering them assistance to return home if they disembark in Greece.

The Ministry stressed that its naval ship deployed to the area would only provide rescue or humanitarian support and would “under no circumstances” take part in military maneuvers against any party.

“It must be clear to all participants that those who continue the mission assume the risks personally,” the Ministry said.

The flotilla’s leadership said several governments had already warned their citizens about the risk of an imminent Israeli attack. Despite those warnings, organizers insist they are determined to reach Gaza and challenge the blockade that has drawn growing international criticism amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the territory.

Pursuing mission despite growing threats

On Wednesday, activists aboard the Libyan Omar al-Mukhtar hospital ship reported that three drones flew overhead in what appeared to be a surveillance operation. Despite sailing alone to catch up with the main fleet, the crew stated that the ship remains on course and is carrying a mobile medical clinic.

The volunteers on board emphasized that they will continue their mission despite growing threats.