The flotilla aims to deliver essential supplies such as emergency aid, medicines, and survival essentials, with regional delegations overseeing each ship, despite challenges posed by weather, geopolitical tensions, and security concerns.

The Spanish government, led by Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, has pledged to protect its participants and support the mission, highlighting the importance of humanitarian aid access via land routes, while the operation continues to be monitored for security.

A humanitarian flotilla, including Greta Thunberg and activists from over 40 countries, has set out from Barcelona to break the Israeli naval blockade and deliver aid to Gaza, aiming to address urgent humanitarian needs.

The flotilla's departure was delayed due to stormy seas, with an initial attempt on Sunday aborted, but it successfully restarted on Tuesday evening amid strong public support, with around 5,000 people gathering in Barcelona to show solidarity.

Organized by the independent 'Global Sumud Flotilla,' the mission emphasizes peaceful resistance and international law, with support from activists, European politicians, and public figures, asserting its legitimacy and independence from governments.

Participants acknowledge the risks involved, including potential confrontation with the Israeli navy, but emphasize their moral obligation to act against what they describe as ongoing genocide in Gaza, criticizing international inaction.

The flotilla is part of a broader movement that seeks to build global solidarity through future actions like marches and strikes, and it continues efforts by groups such as MAPIM and Cinta Gaza Malaysia.

While the mission is supported by many, public opinion remains polarized, with supporters emphasizing humanitarian needs and opponents raising security concerns and fears of regional escalation.

The initiative follows previous attempts, such as the 2010 Turkish ship Mavi Marmara, and involves multiple organizations, including the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla and the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, highlighting ongoing tensions and activism related to Gaza.

Despite the risks and geopolitical sensitivities, organizers and participants remain committed, viewing the flotilla as a historic act of resistance and a vital effort to deliver aid and hope to Gaza’s population.

The mission has garnered significant international attention, with involvement from European lawmakers, celebrities, and NGOs, and has raised over 2.28 million euros to fund its operations, more than doubling the initial target.

Weather warnings from Spain’s meteorological agency have complicated plans, with further departures uncertain, though additional boats from Tunisia and Sicily are expected to join in the coming days.