The Freedom Fleet Approaches Gaza Amid Israeli Threats

In a dramatic development amid charged regional atmospheres, the "Global Freedom Fleet" has approached the shores of the Gaza Strip, after previously being subjected to drone attacks off the Greek coasts, according to informed sources.

Security sources said today, Wednesday, that Israel has actually begun "preliminary technological" steps to prevent the fleet from reaching the shores of Gaza, amid increasing security mobilization in anticipation of any maritime confrontation.

In a statement issued this morning, the organizers of the fleet revealed that unknown ships approached some of the participating boats, some of which were sailing without lights, raising concerns among activists about an attempt to intercept them at sea.

However, the statement later confirmed, via Telegram, that the ships withdrew from the area, and that the participants in the convoy implemented strict security measures in anticipation of any emergency.

In a notable turn, the Italian government announced yesterday, Tuesday, the withdrawal of its military ship that was accompanying the fleet, leaving the participants vulnerable to confrontation with Israeli forces.

Rome also urged the participants to accept a settlement initiative that stipulates delivering aid at a Cypriot port, to avoid escalation, but the convoy organizers repeatedly rejected the proposal, emphasizing their main goal: breaking the siege imposed on Gaza.

The "Global Freedom Fleet" set sail from the Spanish city of Barcelona in late August, comprising more than 40 civilian boats carrying parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists from various countries, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

The campaign is organized by the FreedomFlotillaCoalition , alongside regional initiatives such as MaghrebSumudFlotilla and Sumud Nusantara, as part of a symbolic global effort to reject the maritime blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.

In contrast, Israel emphasized that it would not allow the fleet to enter Gaza's waters, reminding of previous experiences when similar convoys were prevented from reaching, and several participants were arrested before being deported later.

Will the Freedom Fleet succeed in achieving its goal and breaking the siege, or will an imminent maritime confrontation recall events of previous convoys like "Mavi Marmara" and "The Freedom Flotilla"?

All eyes are on the Mediterranean Sea, where the coming hours may bring decisive developments.