Global Sumud Fleet Resumes Journey to Gaza
Reported by Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai from the Mediterranean Sea
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, ANTALYA – After being held back for two days due to strong winds and high waves, all ships in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) have resumed their voyage to break the blockade of Gaza, Palestine. A total of 54 vessels gathered and set sail simultaneously from Andrasa Bay, Antalya, Turkey on Sunday (17/05/2026).
Two Republika journalists, Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai, are still aboard the Boralize and Ozgurluk ships as part of this humanitarian mission. The humanitarian vessels set sail simultaneously after completing technical checks early in the morning to continue their journey. The ships, which had dropped anchor in several bays on Friday night (14/05/2026) to avoid the storm, underwent repairs.
The Family ship, which is carrying the Doctors to Gaza team, has also rejoined the flotilla. On board are approximately 30 doctors and medical personnel from various countries who are dedicated to providing humanitarian aid in Gaza. All ships resumed their voyage around 09:05 Turkish time.
From Republika’s observation in Andrasa Bay, Antalya, the weather conditions appear clear. The sky is bright blue with a gentle breeze, and the waves in the sea are not very high.
Previously, the Global Sumud Flotilla was reported to be regrouping before continuing its voyage to the Gaza Strip on Sunday morning local time. The departure of the humanitarian fleet is said to be adjusted according to weather forecasts.
In an official statement to the families and relatives of the flotilla participants, the communication team of the Global Sumud Flotilla stated that all ships are expected to regroup soon after being separated earlier.
“In the next few hours, all vessels are expected to reunite and prepare to sail towards Gaza in the morning according to weather forecasts,” said the communication team for the families and relatives of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
The committee also stated that it will provide further updates after the fleet officially sets sail for Gaza. The Global Sumud Flotilla mission is part of an international solidarity effort to break the blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.