MISSION CONTINUES WITH UNWAVERING DETERMINATION DESPITE MECHANICAL CHALLENGES ON FAMILY

CRETE, GREECE - The Global Sumud Flotilla is now preparing to depart from the coast of Crete on its final leg to reach the shores of Gaza.

Last night, we suffered a major setback with the mechanical failure of the Family Boat, one of the lead vessels of our flotilla. Nonetheless, the participants on board remain undeterred and committed to the mission.

Each has been reallocated, bringing their sailing expertise, communications skills, and diplomatic coordination to the new vessels — large and small — that will carry them to the shores of Gaza. The flotilla's operational center remains intact.

The spirit of Sumud that guides us cannot be broken by mechanical failures, adverse conditions, or any attempts to obstruct our peaceful mission. We sail onward, united in purpose and unwavering in our commitment to the Palestinian people.

BACKGROUND: The Global Sumud Flotilla is a transnational, civilian-led maritime mission of more than 500 doctors, lawyers, parliamentarians, unionists, and human rights defenders delivering medical aid and food to Gaza's besieged population.

Participants have undergone extensive nonviolence training and are accompanied by legal and medical support boats to guarantee transparency and adherence to international law.

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