Pakistan Joins Global Flotilla Aimed at Delivering Aid to Gaza
Pakistan is among 44 countries represented in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), a coalition seeking to deliver humanitarian aid and highlight the situation in Gaza. The fleet is expected to set sail on Sunday, September 7, with volunteers and activists from around the world joining the effort.
📌 Pakistan’s Delegation
A five-member Pakistani team, led by former senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, will travel aboard the Sumud Nausantara vessel, which also includes participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and the Philippines.
Speaking ahead of departure, Khan emphasized the mission’s purpose:
“This is not just a journey—it is a humanitarian task. We want to highlight the need for an end to suffering, for the creation of a humanitarian corridor, and for the lifting of restrictions.”
He stressed that the ships will travel through international waters, underlining the peaceful and legal nature of the mission.
📌 Training and Preparation
Volunteers have undergone training sessions on nonviolent methods, discipline, and safety measures in case of emergencies. Each participant has also recorded an “SOS” video to be shared on social media in the event of detention.
The aid being carried includes baby formula, food, clean water, and medicines, intended for civilians in Gaza.
📌 Global Participation
The GSF combines four coalitions: the Sumud Nausantara, Maghreb Sumud Flotilla, Freedom Flotilla Coalition, and Global March to Gaza. High-profile participants include activists, lawyers, journalists, and public figures such as Nelson Mandela’s grandson Nkosi Zwelivelile and climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Initially scheduled for September 5, the flotilla’s departure was delayed due to weather conditions. The updated plan confirms the collective departure for September 7.
📌 Challenges and Reactions
Israeli officials have criticized the mission and threatened to seize the vessels. In response, the coalition issued a statement urging the United Nations and world governments to ensure safe passage for volunteers and aid.
Khan highlighted three possible outcomes:
-
The flotilla reaches Gaza and delivers aid.
-
The participants are detained and deported.
-
The ships are intercepted before reaching their destination.
Despite the risks, he stated that the Pakistani delegation is committed to peaceful participation.
📌 Pakistan’s Role
Khan noted that while other countries have extended support, the Pakistani government has not provided direct assistance. He explained that volunteers, including his delegation, are covering their own expenses to participate in the flotilla.
“People travelling on the Global Sumud Flotilla must pay for their seats and contribute toward aid supplies. I am financing my participation myself,” he said.
The Global Sumud Flotilla reflects a growing international effort to support humanitarian relief for Gaza. With participants from across continents, the mission underscores global civil society’s role in addressing humanitarian challenges where governments and institutions have struggled to act.
