The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, including young activist Greta Thunberg, faced alleged Israeli interference as their radios were reportedly jammed with Abba music. GB News reported that the flotilla claimed Israel was behind the interruption, which played songs from the Swedish pop group for hours—an apparent jab at Thunberg’s heritage. The GSF, composed of dozens of boats from 44 countries, aims to deliver food, water, and medicine to civilians in Gaza, but the musical disruption highlights the challenges of their mission.
GSF member Yasemin Acar said in a video that during the incident, “They’re jamming our radio. We don’t know where this is coming from, the sound, but other vessels are experiencing the same thing.” The flotilla also claimed that Israeli military drones targeted several ships, damaging communication equipment and masts. However, Tunisian officials dismissed the allegations of a drone strike, stating that there was no basis for the claim and that they were investigating a fire on the deck instead.
The GSF remains undeterred by these challenges, stating in a statement that their “peaceful mission to break the siege on Gaza and stand in solidarity with its people continues with determination and resolve.” Thunberg’s second attempt at leading a flotilla comes amid the ongoing war in Gaza, which has claimed over 63,000 lives, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The flotilla’s mission is framed by Thunberg as a survival effort, emphasizing the plight of civilians and accusing Israel of violating international law by intercepting humanitarian aid in international waters.
Thunberg’s previous attempt also faced hurdles when she was deported after Israeli forces stopped her ship, the Madleen, along with 11 others. Israel has maintained a naval blockade on Gaza since Hamas took control in 2007, citing the need to prevent weapons smuggling. The blockade continues during the current war, which was sparked by Hamas’ deadly October 2023 attack on Israel. The GSF’s mission is part of the broader conflict, drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing dispute over aid access to Gaza.
The flotilla’s journey is just days away from reaching about 200 miles off Gaza’s coast, a crucial step in delivering aid to the region. Despite the reported disruptions, the GSF remains focused on its goal, reflecting the complexities of humanitarian efforts in conflict zones. The incident underscores the challenges faced by international aid missions and the political tensions surrounding access to Gaza.