The European country will abandon the pro-Hamas fleet to avoid an international conflict with Israel
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The Ministry of Defense of Italy announced that its naval frigate will stop escorting the so-called "Global Sumud Flotilla" once it approaches 150 nautical miles (about 278 kilometers [172 miles]) from the coast of Gaza.
The decision underscores Rome's determination not to become involved in a confrontation with Israel, which has reiterated that it will not allow the entry of vessels attempting to circumvent the blockade of the enclave controlled by Hamas. Meanwhile, Pedro Sánchez's antisemitic Spanish government continues its support for the pro-terrorists.
The flotilla, made up of more than 40 civilian boats with parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists—including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg—aims to challenge the maritime security established by Israel.
Italy's Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto
However, the Italian Ministry of Defense emphasized that the military vessel will issue two final warnings before withdrawing, in order to avoid "a diplomatic incident" with Jerusalem.
The flotilla's spokesperson in Italy, Maria Elena Delia, acknowledged that the organizers were notified in advance about the decision.
Israel has made it clear that the maritime blockade is part of its fight against Hamas and is legitimate under international law.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto warned that the vessels will likely be intercepted in open sea and that the activists could face arrest if they persist in their challenge.
Crosetto urged the organizers to accept the proposal to send aid to Gaza through Cyprus, a safe channel coordinated with Israel, but the flotilla rejected the alternative.
Israel has reiterated on multiple occasions that the direct entry of vessels into Gaza poses a security risk, given Hamas's history of diverting civilian shipments for military purposes.
Israeli authorities have emphasized that humanitarian aid can enter the enclave through legal and controlled channels, without the need for political provocations disguised as civilian missions.
With Italy's withdrawal from the equation and the foreseeable withdrawal of other European escorts, the activists are increasingly exposed to imminent Israeli intervention in international waters.
For Jerusalem, the priority remains to prevent Hamas from taking advantage of any loophole to strengthen its terrorist infrastructure under the pretext of humanitarian aid.
