Barcelona Flotilla for Gaza Postponed Due to Storm

Barcelona, Sep 1 (AP) A flotilla bound for Gaza that had launched from Barcelona with significant attention was compelled to return to port after a storm impacted parts of Spain overnight.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprised of approximately 20 boats with participants from 44 different countries, decided to return and postpone its departure to "prioritize safety," as stated on Monday.

With winds surpassing 56 kilometers per hour, several smaller vessels involved in the mission were at potential risk, the statement elaborated.

This flotilla represents the most substantial effort to date to circumvent the Israeli blockade of the Palestinian territory by sea.

The event coincides with Israel intensifying its offensive on Gaza City, restricting the delivery of food and essential supplies in the northern region of the Palestinian area.

Food experts have warned earlier this month that the city is engulfed by famine, with half a million inhabitants across the strip facing dire levels of hunger.

Thousands of Pro-Palestinian supporters assembled under a sweltering sun at the docks of Barcelona's historic port on Sunday to send off the mission.

Spain's national meteorological agency, AEMET, had previously issued alerts for rainfall and intense storms in the region of Catalonia along with other areas in Spain.

The exact timing for the maritime convoy's next departure from Barcelona remains uncertain.

Additionally, other ships are anticipated to join from various locations across the Mediterranean in the coming days, including Tunisia and Sicily.

The participants on board include Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and the former Mayor of Barcelona, Ada Colau.

The flotilla also garnered backing from Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon and Liam Cunningham, recognized for his role in the HBO series "Game of Thrones."

The Israeli military is expected to attempt to intercept the boats before they reach Gaza, following previous patterns.

The nearly 23-month conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 63,000 people, with close to 340 Palestinians succumbing to malnutrition, including 124 children, as reported by the Gaza Health Ministry. (AP) SKS GSP

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