By Don Bryant

The Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza was a courageous feat that gave a huge boost to the morale of our movement. It was also a global embarrassment to Bibi Netanyahu, further exposing the inhumanity of the Zionist Israeli regime. At least 42 civilian boats carrying over 400 activists from 37 countries launched with the mission to establish a maritime corridor into Gaza, where the 18-year military siege and two years of accelerated genocide have left Gaza barely clinging to life. Apartheid Israel has enforced a blockade on Gaza since Hamas took control in 2007. 

All 42 boats were illegally intercepted between October 1-3, 2025, with 462 people kidnapped in international waters. Besides notables climate activist Greta Thunberg, former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, and European Parliament member Rima Hassan, 22 U.S. residents had joined the Flotilla. Two Ohioans returned from their detention in Israeli custody between October 10-12, 2025. One Flotilla activist, Phil Tottenham of Veterans for Peace in Toledo, Ohio, said at an October 11 press conference that the conditions in apartheid Israel’s prison were deplorable and torturous but were nothing compared to the long-term torture that Palestinian political prisoners must endure. Mr. Tottenham remarked that as the empire’s mask is removed, they will fumble, and we must be there to “disrupt, disrupt, disrupt.” 

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition continues and is in partnership with Thousand Madleens and the Conscience, with more boats on the way to Palestine. You can read more about the flotilla and follow along with their journey here.