Islamabad —: The Palestine Action Coalition has confirmed that the Global Sumud Flotilla’s main convoy is en route to the Greek island of Crete, from where it will embark on the final leg of its journey directly toward Gaza. Former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, head of the Pakistani delegation, is traveling with the main convoy.
According to Press release issued by the Coalition, the flotilla was delayed longer than expected near the coast of Sicily due to stormy weather. During this period, several vessels suffered mechanical failures and other technical issues, forcing organizers to reduce the overall number of ships and passengers on board.
The Coalition reported that two Pakistani members, Dr. Osama Riaz and Mazhar Shah, were aboard a vessel that suffered engine failure shortly after leaving Sicily. The ship remained stranded at sea for more than 12 hours and sustained significant damage due to rough waves. Eventually, Italian rescue teams reached the vessel, evacuating all passengers safely. The rescued individuals are currently on the Italian coast, awaiting clearance to resume their journey.
Due to these challenges, two other Pakistani participants, Ismail Khan and Maulana Khateeb ur Rehman, will not be continuing with the flotilla and are expected to return to Pakistan in the coming days.
In addition, the Coalition stated that Syed Uzair Nizami is traveling on an observer vessel, tasked with monitoring the convoy from behind and reporting immediately in case of any unlawful aggression or attack. This observer ship will not proceed directly toward Gaza.
The Palestine Action Coalition emphasized that the mission is not limited to humanitarian assistance but is also aimed at challenging the illegal blockade of Gaza and awakening the conscience of the international community. The Coalition once again urged the Government of Pakistan and the international community to take urgent, concrete, and practical steps to ensure the safety of the flotilla and its participants.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
