The Global Sumud Flotilla departed Barcelona on 31 August 2025, carrying humanitarian aid and activists including Greta Thunberg. It aimed to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza and deliver supplies to the region.
Organizers reported the flotilla turned back due to stormy weather shortly after departure. The convoy had planned to reach Gaza waters but was unable to proceed because of adverse conditions.
Thunberg had previously been detained and deported in June after attempting to reach Gaza on the Madleen. The flotilla included activists, doctors, and artists from over 40 countries. The group had planned to join others launching from different Mediterranean cities on 4 September.