Spain Deploys Naval Vessel to Escort Flotilla to Gaza

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced that Spain will deploy the offshore patrol vessel Furor (P-46) to support the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international civilian convoy aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The 93-meter-long warship, commissioned in 2017 and manned by 52 specialized sailors, will depart from the naval base in Cartagena. It is equipped to provide assistance to the flotilla or conduct rescue operations if necessary.

This move follows Italy's decision to send a military vessel for similar protective purposes, marking a joint European effort to safeguard the aid mission. Sánchez emphasized Spain's commitment during a media address at the Spanish Permanent Mission to the United Nations, stating that the country will protect the flotilla and ensure accountability for any attacks on it.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, which departed from Barcelona on August 31, 2025, consists of dozens of boats from ports including Spain, Tunisia, Italy, and Greece. Its stated goal is to break Israel's blockade of Gaza and deliver essential supplies amid ongoing humanitarian concerns in the region. The flotilla has faced reported incidents, including drone strikes that organizers attribute to Israel, with explosions heard near vessels and communications disruptions. Tunisian authorities have disputed some claims of attacks.

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg is participating in the flotilla, having initially joined its steering committee before stepping down from that role due to internal disagreements over media focus and communications priorities. Thunberg remains on board one of the vessels and has publicly criticized global media and institutions for complicity in the Gaza crisis. She described the reported drone incidents as a "scare tactic."

The Furor P-46 is part of Spain's Buque de Acción Marítima (BAM) class, designed for high-seas patrols, and was previously based in Cartagena after construction in Ferrol. Spain has also warned, alongside other countries, that any attacks on the flotilla could lead to international accountability measures.

An Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs report has claimed links between the flotilla's organizers and groups like Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, though organizers present it as a humanitarian initiative. The flotilla has garnered support from activists worldwide, with coordinated actions in over 44 countries.

This development comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with the flotilla continuing its journey despite challenges. No official response from Israeli authorities on the Spanish deployment was immediately available.