Gaza: Concerns raise over safety of journalists on Global Sumud Flotilla

Several journalists are reported to be on a journalistic mission on the coordinated fleet of vessels called "Global Sumud Flotilla" which are heading towards Gaza in response to the Israeli's siege on the enclave. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) raises its concerns over the safety of the journalists and urges the United Nations and UNESCO to protect them in accordance with international law.

Members of the group of ships of the Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza are seen moored at the small island of Koufonisi, south of the island of Crete, on September 26, 2025. After a reported attack by drones early on September 25, 2025 morning, Athens has said it will guarantee safe sailing in its waters. Credit: Eleftherios ELIS / AFP.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is a coordinated fleet of small to mid-sized vessels departing from multiple portsacross the Mediterranean. This civilian-led initiative, including humanitarians, doctors, artist, clergy and activists aims to "break the illegal siege on Gaza by sea, open a humanitarian corridor, and end the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people".

Activists onboard have already reported several attacks, including the dropping of explosive devices near several vessels.

According to the IFJ, several journalists have joined the fleet on reporting assignments, including at least 7 from North Africa. As the fleet starts its last leg of the journey, it risks being intercepted by Israeli forces in the next 48 hours.

The IFJ calls on Israeli forces to respect the safety of journalists and treat them in accordance with international law. The federation encourages all other journalists on the Flotilla to get in touch with the IFJ.

The federation reminds thatat least 222 journalists have been killedin Gaza since the beginning of the war and raises again its concern over the ongoing and unforgivable battle against press freedom led by Israel