Rome/Gaza – The Italian navy has confirmed its frigate Alpino will disengage from shadowing the Gaza-bound Sumud humanitarian flotilla as it nears 150 nautical miles from Gaza’s shores. The decision, communicated Tuesday, has drawn accusations of sabotage from organizers, who vowed the mission will continue regardless.
Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the ship will issue a “final call” offering participants the chance to disembark before entering the so-called “critical zone.” Activists rejected the move as cowardice, accusing Rome of enabling Israel’s blockade instead of protecting civilians.
Since October 2023, Israel has waged a relentless campaign on Gaza, killing tens of thousands and destroying hospitals, schools, and mosques while blocking food, medicine, and water. International courts have described the siege as potential genocide, yet the U.S. and U.K. continue to arm Tel Aviv, shielding it from accountability.
The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid, continues toward Gaza despite Italy’s withdrawal. Participants stressed they joined fully aware of the risks.
Italy’s decision reinforces Israel’s illegal maritime blockade and signals Europe’s complicity in sustaining it. By halting at 150 nautical miles, Rome effectively legitimizes a siege the UN has condemned.
Gaza faces famine and disease under blockade, with children dying daily. Denying aid and targeting civilians are crimes under international law and Islam. Italy’s stance, far from saving lives, strengthens a system of oppression.
Defense Minister Guido Crosetto urged activists to seek “alternative ways” to deliver aid. Across the Arab world, regimes like Egypt, UAE, and Saudi Arabia continue dealings with Israel, betraying the very cause they claim to defend. Their silence and cooperation are morally indefensible.
The Sumud flotilla sails onward without Italian protection, into waters where confrontation looms. While Israel tightens its siege and Western and Arab powers shield it, ordinary civilians take on the duty their governments abandoned. History will record who defended the oppressed.
