Greta Thunberg has joined the steering committee of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which organisers say will mount the largest civilian attempt to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza since it began in 2007.
From 31 August, dozens of boats will depart Spain, with further launches from Tunisia and other ports on 4 September. The coordinated mission will involve delegations from over 44 countries, including the US, Malaysia, Brazil, Italy, and Sri Lanka, carrying doctors, lawyers, journalists, and activists.
Organisers say Israeli interception would amount to piracy under international law. Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is due to flag off the Southeast Asian convoy on 23 August, while mass rallies in support will take place worldwide on 9 August.
Thunberg will be joined by other high-profile figures, including Nelson Mandela’s grandson, in what campaigners describe as a direct challenge to “global complicity” in the ongoing siege.