Five Swiss Boats to Join the Global Sumud Flotilla and Break the Gaza Blockade

“The sea is not a wall — it’s a bridge.” Several dozen Swiss citizens are preparing to set sail for Gaza to help break the humanitarian blockade and deliver infant formula and water filters.

Source: 20 Minutes – Geneva: Five Swiss Boats Will Attempt to Break the Gaza Blockade

A Civilian Mission from Switzerland

Several dozen Swiss citizens are preparing to set sail for Gaza to help break the humanitarian blockade and deliver infant formula and water filters. The Waves of Freedom Association (WOFA), recently created in Valais, will contribute five boats (three already acquired, two in progress) to what it calls “the largest civil society action ever organized” — the Global Sumud Flotilla.

Departures are planned for August 31 from Barcelona and September 4 from Tunis, alongside dozens of other international vessels.

Led by Experienced Organizers

Among the leaders are Dr. Hicham El Ghaoui of Verbier and Samuel Crettenand, who spearheaded the Swiss participation in June’s Global March to Gaza, halted in Egypt. That setback forged a stronger coalition — now counting 44 delegations from 160 countries, with specialized logistics, legal, medical, and media teams.

Beyond Aid — A Symbolic and Strategic Action

WOFA acknowledges its boats can only carry about 1–1.5 tons of milk powder each. “It’s insignificant in volume,” says Dr. El Ghaoui. “But the aid is already there — thousands of trucks are waiting in Egypt while people die just kilometers away. We want to show that the sea is not a wall, but a bridge.”

The association also aims to create a maritime humanitarian corridor — a route that, once opened, could allow larger ships to bring supplies.

Neutrality Has Limits

WOFA calls on the Swiss government to protect its mission. “Neutrality no longer applies in the face of genocide,” says Dr. El Ghaoui. “I don’t want my three daughters growing up in a world without justice.”

Strict Recruitment and Nonviolence

Each boat will carry 10–15 Swiss crew members, selected through a rigorous vetting process. Out of 267 identified applicants, only those passing interviews and security checks will be accepted. WOFA insists on nonviolence, pacifism, and a strict ban on any racist or antisemitic content.

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