Bristol’s Malcolm X Center became a focal point of international solidarity this week as activists from across the UK and abroad gathered to announce a bold new initiative aimed at breaking Israel’s blockade on Gaza.

The campaign, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, brings together activists from 44 countries in what organizers describe as the largest coordinated maritime effort yet to challenge the siege.

“What we are going to do next is to go in a mass movement of boats to break the seas—tens of boats going through different ports, mobilizing so many countries,” said Saif Abukeshek, spokesperson for the Global Sumud Flotilla.

While previous flotilla attempts—including the Handala, intercepted by Israeli forces earlier this week—have faced naval blockades, organizers believe this time will be different. Some of those present in Bristol had themselves been on earlier missions, including the Madeleine, also seized by Israel.

“When we look at the history of anti-colonial struggle, we see that once the people are decided to walk this long march to freedom, and they don't stop—there's no oppressive regime that can put an end to it,” Abukeshek added.

Brazilian activist Thiago Avila accused Israel of systematically obstructing humanitarian efforts.

“The Zionist regime has shown its true face by stopping two conservative humanitarian missions carrying life-saving aid. They could do this before because we didn’t yet have enough organizing power. But conditions are changing,” he said.

Organizers warn that Israel “is preparing to commit a war crime in the middle of international waters” by planning to intercept the flotilla.

Former civil servant and lawyer Melanie Schweizer emphasized that the mission is driven by solidarity and moral responsibility.

“It’s solidarity, love, and a deep belief in a better world. We don’t want to accept the status quo or allow our governments to keep dividing us. We believe change is possible,” she said.

Planned to set sail this summer, the Global Sumud Flotilla hopes to create what organizers call a “corridor of conscience” to Gaza.

At the Malcolm X Center—named after the iconic activist who once declared, “If you aren’t ready to die for it, put the word freedom out of your vocabulary”—that spirit of defiance remains strong.

Activists say they will proceed regardless of obstacles. “Come what may, the sea will be the road to Gaza’s freedom,” one organizer affirmed. (ILKHA)