A maritime expert has indicated that humanitarian aid, transported by a second flotilla, will not reach Gaza due to insufficient docking facilities and Israel’s “lawful” blockade.
As the Swedish activist’s vessels departed on Sunday, Thunberg was joined by prominent figures, including Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of approximately 70 boats, is carrying aid such as food, water, and medicine, with the aim of delivering it to civilians in the .
More boats are expected to join the flotilla before its anticipated arrival in Gaza around September 14 or 15.
“Everyone is aware of this impending arrival, and the IDF will uphold a security perimeter in the water to safeguard Gaza’s beaches,” Professor James Kraska, S.J.D., informed Digital.
“There are no port facilities in this area for unloading anything, and Gaza does not possess a port large enough to receive such a substantial flotilla. Its small fishing port is inadequate.”
The U.S. Naval War College professor confirmed that the U.S. previously constructed a temporary port at a significant cost, around $200 million, but later dismantled it because regional weather conditions rendered it unsustainable.
Thunberg’s second endeavor to lead a flotilla takes place amidst the continuing conflict in Gaza City, a war that has claimed over 63,000 lives.
During a press conference held in Barcelona before her departure, Thunberg characterized the mission as an act of survival.
“The central narrative here concerns Palestine. It is about how individuals are intentionally being denied the fundamental necessities for survival,” Thunberg declared, asserting that Israel was in breach of international law by “unlawfully intercepting boats in international waters” and hindering humanitarian aid from reaching civilians.
This marks not Thunberg’s initial effort to deliver aid. In June, her vessel, the Madleen, was intercepted by Israeli forces, along with 11 other individuals who were on board.
Professor Kraska stressed that Israel’s blockade constitutes a lawful operation during an armed conflict to prevent vessels from entering, though it must adhere to specific criteria, including prior notification, effectiveness, and impartial application.
“Ultimately, Israel possesses the authority to uphold the blockade,” Kraska stated. “However, it extends beyond mere legal aspects — politics and practical considerations are equally involved. Both parties are evaluating these various dimensions.
Nevertheless, Israel asserts that its maritime security operations, which resemble a blockade, represent a lawful wartime measure and will act to impede ships from docking.
“There isn’t a singular dominant narrative; instead, there’s international law, the political climate, and the tactical dimension,” he concluded.