Global Sumud fleet approaches Crete: Gaza still 600 miles away

A fleet of 44 ships from the international flotilla Global Sumud is approaching the Greek island of Crete from both Sicily and the Aegean Sea, tracking data shows.

The flotilla tracker said the participants are expected to "reunite."

Five additional vessels planned to depart from Catania, Sicily, but their departure has been delayed or may be cancelled, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

The flotilla faces a journey of roughly 600 nautical miles to the coast of Gaza, its intended destination. Based on current speeds, the ships are expected to reach the eastern Mediterranean in late September or early October.

As a reminder, on September 22, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a warning to participants of the Global Sumud flotilla heading toward the Gaza Strip coast, stating that Israel will not allow ships to enter an active combat zone and breach the naval blockade.

Israeli authorities suggested that the flotilla dock at Ashkelon port to deliver humanitarian aid, emphasizing that this would ensure the cargo reaches Gaza safely and quickly. The ministry stressed that participants should act in accordance with the law and avoid any attempts to bypass established regulations.

By Khagan Isayev