Overview

• The Global Sumud Flotilla says it will not change route and intends to continue toward Gaza despite the presidential appeal.
• Italian mediation would see aid left in Cyprus, taken by the Latin Patriarchate to Ashdod, and then moved to Gaza via a Misericordie-run corridor.
• Flotilla spokeswoman Maria Elena Delia has returned to Italy for direct talks aimed at protecting Italian crew members and advancing mission objectives.
• About fifty humanitarian vessels remain near Koufonissi south of Crete with Gaza roughly 530 miles away, or an estimated five to eight days of sailing.
• Safety concerns persist after reports of drone-dropped blinding grenades and an Israeli warning to enforce the naval blockade, as Italian and Spanish frigates escort only in international waters and Italy’s defense minister says protection cannot be guaranteed beyond.