From the city of Barcelona, Spain, the “Global Resilience Fleet” has set sail in an effort to break the blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza. In parallel, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has prepared a plan aimed at taking control of the fleet and detaining its members for extended periods under strict conditions.
According to reports, Ben Gvir presented his strategy to the cabinet on Sunday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gidon Sa’ar, and Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer in attendance, as detailed by the Israeli newspaper “Jerusalem Post.”
Ben Gvir perceives the resilience fleet as a challenge to Israeli sovereignty and a show of support for Hamas in Gaza. He stated, “The proposed plan outlines measures that reinforce Israel’s stance on protecting its borders and ensuring national security.”
The plan includes the arrest and detention of all activists aboard the fleet in the Israeli prisons of Ktzi’ot and Damon, facilities typically used for holding “terrorists,” under harsh conditions generally reserved for security prisoners. Furthermore, the activists will face prolonged detention without access to privileges such as television, radio, or special food.
Ben Gvir commented, “We will not allow individuals who support terrorism to live in comfort. They will face the full consequences of their actions.”
Additionally, Ben Gvir suggested the confiscation of all vessels involved in the fleet, with plans for them to be repurposed by Israeli security agencies.
The number of ships departing from the Catalan port is yet to be confirmed, but organizers expect it to be between 50 and 70. The initiative aims to “open a humanitarian corridor and put an end to the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people,” according to statements from the project’s arrangers.
Brazilian activist Thiago Avila told reporters in Barcelona last week, “This will be the largest solidarity mission in history,” claiming that the participation will surpass previous attempts to reach Gaza in both participants and vessels.
Moreover, dozens of additional ships are expected to depart from Tunisia and other Mediterranean countries on September 4, along with demonstrations and synchronized “activities” in 44 countries, as reported by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, a member of the steering committee for the “Global Resilience Fleet.”
In an interview with Agence France-Presse on Saturday, Thunberg stated that the ships in this new convoy destined for the Palestinian territory aim “to reach Gaza, deliver humanitarian aid, and announce the opening of a humanitarian corridor, ultimately breaking the illegal and inhumane Israeli blockade on Gaza for good.”
This initiative will see the participation of activists from various countries, alongside European parliamentarians and notable figures such as former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau.