Forty-two ships hailing from Spain, Italy, and the Maghreb region
News Article: Global Sumud Flotilla Faces Drone Attacks Ahead of Planned Departure for Gaza
The Global Sumud Flotilla, a coalition aiming to deliver food and humanitarian aid to Gaza by bypassing the Israeli blockade, faced a setback last week when two ships from the Tunisian delegation, the "Family Madeira" and the "Alma", were attacked by drones.
The incident occurred before the flotilla's planned departure for Gaza on Friday morning. The attack at the port of Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia, resulted in a fire on the "Family Madeira" ship, narrowly missing two activists, including Portuguese Miguel Duarte, as seen in video footage.
The fleet, consisting of vessels from Maghreb countries, Spain, and 17 Italian ships, arrived at the Sicilian port of Portopalo on Sunday. The Italian group, originally scheduled to set sail on September 4, had to postpone due to logistical problems, adverse weather conditions, and other setbacks.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is coordinated by a diverse leadership, with Yasemin Acar as one of the key organizers of the steering committee responsible for coordinating the Mediterranean voyage. The Italian fleet includes four politicians: Benedetta Scuderi, Annalisa Corrado, Arturo Scotto, and Marco Croatti, representing the Green Alliance, Left and the Democratic Party, the Democratic Party, and the 5 Star Movement, respectively.
Portuguese political parties PS and Livre have condemned the attack on the "Family Madeira" ship. The Portuguese coordinator of the Left Bloc, Mariana Mortágua, and actress Sofia Aparição were on board the ship but were not present during the attack.
Despite the setbacks, the coalition remains determined to embark on their mission. The fleet plans to depart for Gaza together on Friday morning. The flotilla includes activists, artists, and other personalities, such as Greta Thunberg and Ada Colau.
The Tunisian delegation of the flotilla has faced multiple delays in their plans, adding another layer of complexity to the already challenging journey. The coalition's perseverance and determination to aid those in need remain unwavering, as they continue to navigate through the challenges ahead.
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