Petition reply on the flotilla that was bound toward the Gaza strip

Dear Petitioner,

I would like to thank you for your message regarding the flotilla that was bound toward the Gaza strip.

The conflict in Gaza has been a top EU priority for the past two years. The EU is the largest international donor to the Palestinian people both in terms of development support as well as humanitarian support. The EU has been deeply concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza as a result of the conflict and has repeatedly urged Israel to improve it. The EU has consistently underlined that Israel had the right to defend itself, but in line with international law, including international humanitarian law.

On 24 October 2025, the European Council welcomed the agreement reached on the initial phase of the Comprehensive Plan to end the Gaza Conflict, as well as the release of all remaining living hostages and called on all parties to fully implement the agreement without delay. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 adopted on 17 November, which endorses the plan, is now the basis of our engagement.

The EU is contributing to this plan through a variety of tools at its disposal, particularly in four main areas: humanitarian, as the largest donor; security through CSDP missions EUBAM Rafah and EUPOL COPPS; governance as the largest supporter to the Palestinian Authority and its reform programme; and reconstruction in cooperation with our regional and international partners.

The EU respects the intention of those on board the flotilla ships to draw attention to the humanitarian plight of the population of Gaza. In the EU everyone has the right to exercise such activism and freedom of assembly. This is a core pillar of EU's values. The freedom of navigation under international law must also be upheld. Attacks against such flotillas are not acceptable. The authorities responsible for ensuring consular protection are the states to which the citizens belong.

That said, the EU discourages flotillas as a means of aid delivery, as it risks the safety of the participants, and the action is in itself inefficient. The EU's focus will always be on delivering aid through proven and effective structures, with EU's partner organisations on the ground. Israel must fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. The EU will continue to insist on this with its Israeli counterparts.

The EU is firmly committed to a lasting and sustainable peace based on the two-state solution. The EU is ready to contribute to all efforts towards this solution and calls on all parties to refrain from actions that undermine its viability. The EU will continue to work with regional and international partners to that end, including through the Global Alliance.