Courage on the Water, Cowardice in Washington: The Global Sumud Flotilla Under Attack
September 24, 2025
A Night of Terror at Sea
Last night, the Global Sumud Flotilla—nearly 50 boats carrying life-saving aid for Gaza—was attacked by Israeli drones and incendiary devices off the coast of Crete. Ten vessels were damaged. Radios were hijacked. Emergency communications were jammed. ABBA songs were blasted on repeat in a grotesque act of psychological warfare aimed at mocking Greta Thunberg, who was aboard and livestreaming during the assault.
The flotilla, filled not with weapons but with baby formula, antibiotics, water filters, and food for starving families, has been smeared as “Hamas supporters” by Israel in an attempt to justify the attacks. The reality could not be more clear: these are unarmed humanitarians risking their lives to deliver aid where governments have failed.
The Supplies They Carry
Every item on those ships tells a story. Formula for newborns who have nothing but contaminated water. Antibiotics for children suffering from treatable infections. Water filters for families forced to drink sewage-tainted water. Food for communities already enduring famine, where parents skip meals so their children might eat.
This is not a symbolic mission—it is survival. Gaza’s population is facing catastrophic hunger because of Israel’s blockade and bombardment. International agencies have warned that famine is not looming, it is here. And yet, instead of protection, these humanitarians were met with drones and fire.
Greta Thunberg’s Defiance
In the midst of the chaos, Greta Thunberg livestreamed to the world: “
“We were aware of the risks of these kinds of attacks, and that’s not something that’s going to stop us. This is a scare tactic. Drones are something that Palestinians experience 24/7. We will not be intimidated.”
Her words are a reminder: what the flotilla endured in one night, Palestinians face every single day.
Europe Responds: Italy and Spain Step Up
The attacks have sparked outrage across Europe. Hundreds of EU parliamentarians have signed urgent letters demanding protection for the flotilla and accountability for Israel’s actions.
And in a major turning point, two European governments have acted. Italy’s defense minister dispatched a naval frigate to escort the flotilla and safeguard Italian nationals at sea. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced his government will send a navy vessel as well.
This is international law in action: governments defending civilians against piracy and collective punishment.
America’s Shameful Silence
And yet, while Italy and Spain rise to the occasion, the United States remains silent. Our leaders have the power to protect these humanitarians, to enforce international law, to save starving children—but they are paralyzed by AIPAC’s grip.
The UN human rights office has said these attacks “defy belief.” Washington’s silence tells us something even darker: complicity.
Courage vs. Cowardice
The humanitarians on those boats have more courage in their hearts than those we’ve elected to lead us. They are willing to risk everything to bring hope and survival to children in Gaza, while too many of our politicians risk nothing more than offending their donors.
Despite damaged ships. Despite psychological warfare. Despite threats of violence. The Global Sumud Flotilla sails on.
Track AIPAC stands with them—and we will hold accountable every U.S. politician who sides with AIPAC’s blood money over humanity.
