‘Freedom Flotilla’ Departs from Sicily to Gaza with Humanitarian Aid – Arrival Expected June 7

‘Freedom Flotilla’ Departs from Sicily to Gaza with Humanitarian Aid – Arrival Expected June 7
Sicily, Italy | June 4, 2025 — A ship named “Madeline” has set sail from the Italian island of Sicily, carrying humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza suffering under Israel’s blockade. Organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), the mission includes 12 international human rights activists, among them Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan. They hope to reach the shores of Gaza by June 7.

A Collective Effort of Aid and Protest

The Madeline is loaded with food supplies donated by local residents of Sicily — including fruit juice, milk, rice, canned food, and protein bars — all considered vital for survival in war-torn Gaza.

Gaza has been under a strict Israeli blockade for over 90 days. In May, the United Nations warned that the entire population of the region is now at risk of famine.

Greta and Rima Leading International Voices

By joining the flotilla, environmental activist Greta Thunberg is helping elevate the Gaza crisis to the level of an international human rights issue. Although she was unable to join a previous mission due to vessel damage, this time she is successfully on board.

Franco-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan stated:

“We are here to take a stand against the ongoing blockade and genocide in Gaza. Our aim is to end Israel’s impunity and raise global awareness about this crisis.”

She also shared that she had attempted to enter the occupied Palestinian territories in February of this year, but was denied entry by Israeli authorities.

“Public Engagement Is Essential” – Rima Hassan

On her social media platforms, Rima called for greater public support:

“To ensure the safety and success of this mission, we need maximum public awareness and involvement.”

Part of a Long-Term Protest Movement

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has been organizing peaceful, non-violent, and internationally focused sea voyages against the Gaza blockade since 2010. The coalition unites human rights activists from around the world in a show of solidarity with the Palestinian people.

This year’s Madeline mission is more than just a delivery of humanitarian aid — it carries a bold and symbolic message of protest against Israel’s blockade and a global expression of solidarity with the people of Gaza.