Greta Steps Aside
Tensions Boil on Gaza Flotilla: Greta Thunberg Quits Executive Committee
Internal conflicts emerge in Gaza-bound flotilla as climate activist Greta Thunberg leaves executive committee amid delays and leadership reshuffling.
The "Global Sumud Flotilla" to Gaza, hailed as the "largest ever," is reportedly facing significant internal turmoil as it sails toward its destination. The fleet of over 40 vessels, which has been delayed for weeks, has seen key organizers leave and leadership roles change hands, including that of prominent climate activist Greta Thunberg.
The flotilla, which departed from Barcelona on August 31, was expected to have already reached Gaza. Instead, a series of crises and malfunctions, including a two-week delay in Tunisia, have caused tension among participants. The drama hit a peak this week when Greta Thunberg was seen dragging a suitcase on the dock, leaving the "Family," the ship that hosts the executive committee.
She relocated to another vessel, the "Alma," and her name was subsequently removed from the list of management members on the flotilla's official website. According to sources, Thunberg opposed the group's media strategy, which she felt was too focused on internal conflicts rather than the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Flotilla Infighting Leads to Leadership Shakeup
In a statement to the anti-Israel site "Drop Site," Thunberg confirmed her new role.
"I strongly believe in this humanitarian mission's goal and in the mobilization power we're seeing around the world," she said, adding that her new position as an "organizer and participant" would allow her to contribute more effectively.
The delays and internal conflicts have also led to other departures. The Journalist Yosef Omar announced on Instagram that he was leaving the mission, reportedly due to his "sensational style" of coverage, which angered other participants.
The prolonged wait in Bizerte, Tunisia, for fuel and to deal with local bureaucracy, has left many crews "more and more impatient," creating a frustrating atmosphere that has led some participants to abandon the mission entirely.