Giorgia Meloni Withdraws Italy’s Naval Support for Gaza Flotilla After Netanyahu Threat

Meloni scared by Netanyahu's threat: The Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of activists from around the world seeking to break the Gaza blockade, is now just hours from the Gaza border. The flotilla includes dozens of ships, carrying civilians as well as Italian MPs and members of the European Parliament.

Israel has already issued a warning

Israel had already threatened to stop the flotilla heading to Gaza. Italy and Spain have sent naval ships to provide necessary surveillance and rescue support.

Italian Navy decides to stop

The Italian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday that the navy will no longer pursue the flotilla. The ministry said that as soon as the flotilla reaches within 150 nautical miles (278 km) of the coast, the warships will stop. The activists will be given two warnings before departing, with the final warning expected around 00:00 GMT.

Flotilla members will ignore warnings

An Italian spokesperson for the flotilla, Maria Elena Delia, said that the activists have been informed of the Italian government's plan and do not intend to heed warnings not to come close to the coast.

Military ships deployed last week

Italy and Spain deployed naval ships last week, when a drone was attacked by a stun grenade and stimulating drones in international waters near Greece. However, the purpose of these ships was not a military conflict with Israel.

The purpose of Sumud Flotilla

Supporters consider it a peaceful task against Gaza's 18-year-old blockade. They remind it of the 2010 Mavi Marmara attack, when the Israeli army killed nine activists in the sea, and once again see it as a threat of violent confrontation.