The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, has reported detecting more than 20 unidentified vessels on its radar, just three nautical miles ahead of its fleet. The alert, issued at 20:20 GMT+3 on Wednesday, October 1, has raised fears of a potential naval blockade as the convoy approaches the besieged enclave.
“Our radar is currently tracking 20+ unidentified vessels ahead of the fleet. At the current pace, we would reach their position in about 30 minutes if they do not move,” the organisers said.
They added that while the identity of the vessels remains unconfirmed, “this situation raises concerns of a potential naval blockade.” In a separate message, the coalition stressed, “We will not be intimidated by threats, harassment, or efforts to protect Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza.”
Final approach to Gaza
Earlier on Wednesday, the flotilla confirmed it had entered the R3 “High-Risk Zone” and was on course to dock at Gaza Port by 11:58 AM UTC on October 2 (4:58 PM Gaza time).
“We are almost there. Every hour counts. Keep your eyes locked on our position,” the organisers wrote, urging international supporters to follow the journey live and press their governments to safeguard the mission.
Less than 90 nautical miles from Gaza
The ships have crossed into the R3 “High-Risk Zone” and are now sailing less than 90 nautical miles from Gaza, according to the Sumud Nusantara Tracker.
Earlier, the coalition reported that participants remained calm overnight despite intimidation attempts by the Israeli military. Reconnaissance drones were spotted flying over the vessels, but safety procedures were followed and all crew members were reported safe.
“Our resilience and commitment carried us through the darkness. Far from deterring us, these threats have strengthened our determination to continue,” the organisers said, adding that the mission sails on “with renewed resolve to break the siege, deliver aid, and uphold our mission of non-violent solidarity with the people of Gaza.”
The organisers noted that the flotilla has now sailed beyond the point where the vessel Madleen and Handala was previously intercepted by Israeli forces, though they stressed the need for vigilance as the mission advances closer to Gaza.
According to reports, reconnaissance drones were spotted flying at medium altitudes over the fleet’s vessels as the ships pressed forward. Activists on board the Alma reportedly threw their phones into the sea in accordance with protocol, which requires such action once a vessel is confirmed to have been intercepted.
Supporters worldwide have been urged to follow the journey live and call on their governments to safeguard the humanitarian mission.
At dawn on Wednesday, organisers reported that Israeli naval vessels circled the flotilla’s lead boats, Alma and Sirius, for several minutes, disabling communications and forcing evasive manoeuvres to avoid collision. Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila said on X that the ships’ communication systems were damaged, though no injuries occurred.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to include the latest statement from the Global Sumud Flotilla on its final approach to Gaza.
