Gaza Aid Flotilla Returns to Barcelona Due to Stormy Weather

A flotilla carrying humanitarian aid and activists bound for Gaza returned to Barcelona on Monday after encountering severe weather conditions shortly after departure. The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising approximately 20 boats with participants from 44 countries, faced winds exceeding 56 kilometers per hour (35 miles per hour), prompting organizers to prioritize safety and delay the journey.

The mission, which includes Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau, aims to break the Israeli naval blockade and deliver essential supplies to Gaza. Thousands of supporters had gathered at Barcelona's old port to see the flotilla off.

Spain's national weather agency had issued warnings of strong storms in the Catalonia region. It remains unclear when the convoy will resume its journey, with additional vessels expected to join from Tunis and Sicily in the coming days.