AUK Reports from Barcelona as “Soumoud 2” Prepares to Sail for Gaza
In the Spanish port city of Barcelona, preparations are intensifying for the launch of the second “Soumoud” solidarity flotilla, an international civilian convoy aiming to challenge the blockade on Gaza and draw renewed global attention to the humanitarian crisis in the territory.
From the scene, Adnan Hmaidan, editor-in-chief of Al-Arab in UK (AUK), is reporting directly on the ground, documenting the final stages of preparation as activists, volunteers and supporters gather in large numbers to accompany the departure of Soumoud 2, currently scheduled to sail from Barcelona on Sunday, 12 April, though organisers say departure may be postponed until Tuesday, 14 April, depending on weather conditions.
A maritime route of solidarity
The flotilla’s first destination is expected to be the Italian coast before continuing along several European ports in what organisers describe as a symbolic and humanitarian voyage intended to challenge restrictions imposed on Gaza.
Campaign organisers say the mission is designed not only to deliver humanitarian aid, but also to send a political message calling for safe humanitarian corridors into the territory, where shortages of food, medicine and reconstruction materials remain acute.
The initiative unfolds amid the continuing Israeli assault on Gaza and the wider regional escalation, a context that has heightened the urgency of international solidarity efforts.
More than 1,000 activists expected
More than 1,000 activists from dozens of countries are expected to take part in the convoy, including participants from the UK.
The flotilla includes vessels carrying humanitarian supplies alongside engineers, medical volunteers, technical specialists and campaigners involved in broader initiatives aimed at supporting Gaza’s reconstruction.
Organisers say the convoy reflects a growing international civilian movement seeking to maintain pressure on governments and institutions to address the blockade through diplomatic and humanitarian channels.
Political momentum beyond the sea
The maritime mobilisation is also being accompanied by parallel political efforts. A parliamentary conference is scheduled to take place in Brussels on 22 April, where lawmakers and campaign representatives are expected to discuss strategies for supporting Gaza and increasing international pressure to lift restrictions on access.
“A moral duty”
Speaking to AUK, Saif Abu Kishk, one of the organisers of the Soumoud flotilla, described the convoy as “a humanitarian effort and a moral duty to break the blockade on Gaza”.
He stressed that sustained international cooperation is needed to establish a secure maritime route capable of ensuring regular delivery of humanitarian aid.
Keeping Gaza in global focus
For organisers and participants alike, Soumoud 2 is as much about symbolism as logistics: a peaceful civilian initiative intended to keep Gaza visible in international consciousness at a time when multiple global crises compete for attention.
The scale of mobilisation in Barcelona — combining grassroots solidarity, international participation and political backing — reflects a growing determination to challenge the status quo through non-violent humanitarian action.
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