Global Sumud Flotilla sets sail for Gaza without UK protection

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
6 Sep 2025 17:00

The Global Sumud Flotilla has departed for Gaza with activists from 44 nations, despite the United Kingdom's refusal to offer protection.

Listen

Boats of the flotilla aimed at breaking the siege on the Gaza Strip, moored at the port of Barcelona, on August 31, 2025 (Lluis GENE / AFP)

Activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla have called for international protection after the United Kingdom government declined to offer any security guarantees for the Gaza-bound humanitarian mission.

The flotilla, which embarked on its journey toward the besieged Palestinian enclave, includes dozens of volunteers from 44 countries, among them a delegation from the United Kingdom. The mission aims to deliver urgently needed aid to Palestinians in Gaza, including food, water, and medical supplies, amid what organizers describe as a worsening humanitarian catastrophe.

Volunteers had earlier appealed to the UK government to “support” and “protect” them should they face interception by Israeli forces, as occurred during previous flotilla efforts, according to The National, a Scottish daily.

Despite the calls, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Wednesday that his government would not offer protection to British citizens participating in the mission.

International calls for protection and humanitarian access

In response, flotilla organizers issued a renewed appeal to international bodies, including the United Nations and national governments, urging them to ensure the volunteers' safe passage.

"The Global Sumud Flotilla stands united in its humanitarian mission to deliver urgently needed food, water, and medical supplies to the Palestinian people enduring a catastrophic genocide, famine, and spiraling health crisis caused by Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza," a spokesperson for the flotilla said.

The call for protection is echoed in a joint statement signed by more than 140 elected representatives from several countries, although none from the United Kingdom. The signatories demand the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to support the mission and ensure the safety of those aboard.

The flotilla’s departure comes amid increasing threats from the Israeli government. Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reportedly vowed to label the volunteers as “terrorists” and to seize the vessels involved.

The statement has raised fears of a repeat of previous incidents, such as the interception of the Madleen and Handala flotillas, during which participants were detained and later deported by Israeli forces.

Flotilla backed by global Palestine solidarity

The mission has drawn strong support from global Palestine solidarity networks, while criticism mounts against the UK's stance.

Patrick Harvie, the Scottish Greens’ external affairs spokesperson, condemned the government’s position, calling it “a disgrace.” He argued that Starmer has “a moral and legal obligation” to support the humanitarian effort.

"These were vessels carrying baby formula, diapers, and medical supplies. Failure to do so will shame our country for generations," Harvie stated.

Despite lacking UK government backing, the Global Sumud Flotilla continues its journey, representing a growing international effort to challenge the blockade on Gaza and deliver direct aid to the people of Palestine.