Italian Prime Minister Calls for Suspension of Gaza-Bound Flotilla
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni urged the Soumoud flotilla, which is attempting to break the Israeli maritime blockade to deliver aid to Gaza, to immediately suspend its mission. According to Meloni, any confrontation with the Israeli entity could disrupt the "fragile balance" currently in place and jeopardize a peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump.
Warning of Consequences
In a statement, Meloni warned that persisting in this confrontation could provide a pretext for the failure of the peace plan and emphasized that the flotilla should cease its operations to avoid any escalation. The Italian Ministry of Defense also announced that the Italian Navy would withdraw as soon as the Soumoud flotilla reaches a distance of 150 nautical miles (278 km) from the Gaza coast. At that point, the Navy will cease its escort, in accordance with repeated instructions over the past few days. Two warnings will be issued to the activists, with the second warning scheduled for midnight (UTC) as the flotilla approaches this limit.
Flotilla's Determination
Maria Elena Delia, the Italian spokesperson for the flotilla, indicated that the activists had been informed of the withdrawal of the Italian military ship, a measure intended to avoid a "diplomatic incident" with the Israeli entity. However, the flotilla does not intend to respect the warnings to avoid the coastal area. The Italian and Spanish navies deployed a ship each last week to accompany the Soumoud flotilla, after drone attacks equipped with sonic bombs and irritant substances in international waters off Greece. No military engagement is planned.
Tensions and Risks of Clashes
The activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, expect an imminent new attack. According to Delia, "all signs indicate that the Israeli entity could launch an attack against us tonight." The Israeli entity has not confirmed being responsible for the recent attacks but threatens to use all means to prevent the delivery of aid to Gaza.
Rejected Call for Compromise
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto launched a "final appeal" to the members of the flotilla to accept a compromise consisting of delivering humanitarian aid from Cyprus to avoid a military confrontation. This appeal was rejected by the representatives of the flotilla. Meanwhile, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed that the Italian frigate escorting the flotilla will broadcast a radio call inviting participants to leave the ships before entering a "critical zone."
Flotilla's Resolve
The Soumoud flotilla, composed of over 40 civilian boats and including parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists, is nonetheless continuing its journey to Gaza, determined to break the Israeli blockade.
