Overview

• President Sergio Mattarella appealed to the Global Sumud Flotilla to accept the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s mediation to deliver aid safely and avoid risking lives.
• The flotilla’s Italian spokeswoman, Maria Elena Delia, rejected the proposal, arguing that changing course concedes legality to the blockade and citing reported drone attacks in international waters.
• Organizers reported a serious engine failure on the lead vessel Family Boat, shifted people to other boats, and said they intend to resume sailing from south of Crete as conditions allow.
• The Italian Navy’s frigate Alpino rotated in to stay near the convoy after Fasan moved for logistics, while the Foreign Ministry warned participants they assume personal risk and offered assistance to those who stop.
• A separate convoy organized by Thousand Madleens to Gaza and the Freedom Flotilla Coalition is announced to depart from Catania on September 27 at 5 p.m. to attempt another run toward Gaza.