FLOTILLA FOR GAZA: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW.

The Italian expedition, conducted by 400 people and over 40 ships, aimed to carry out humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip; what are the legal implications?

According to Tony La Piccirell, one of the group’s spokespersons, the Sumud Flotilla is still navigating in international waters, just over 350 miles from the Gaza Strip: the arrival is estimated on Thursday. He also explains that within four days, the boats will reach the areas where previous missions by Israeli forces were intercepted. The activist also added that other boats have departure from Catania on Saturday and that the Conscience will depart in the coming days on board which there will be international journalists and doctors

“We don’t want to force blockades but rather provide aid. Israel is acting illegally when it attacks international waters. But we will stop at Israel’s command. I believe none of the vessels intend to force the blockade, because this is a peaceful and non-violent mission; these have been the rules of engagement from the beginning. The blockade is illegal.” This is the statement of Arturo Scotto, a Democratic Party MP, speaking on behalf of the crew of the Karma ship, part of the Sumud Flotilla

Is the Israeli naval blockade really illegal according to international law? Under international law, a naval blockade is not prohibited: the Sanremo Manual considers it legitimate, only under certain conditions. But if the population affected by the blockade is not adequately supplied with either the means of subsistence, the rules are clear: no blockade can be implemented. The Israeli naval blockade of Gaza has been ongoing since 2009. In violation of international law, past operations similar to the Flotilla have often been blocked in international waters (where Israel has no jurisdiction).  

“In 2024, the International Court of Justice confirmed, in an advisory opinion requested by the UN General Assembly, that Israel’s occupation of the occupied Palestinian territories, … is unlawful and must immediately end. A maritime blockade in an unlawfully occupied maritime zone is also an unlawful act”, as Enzo Cannizzaro, professor of International Law at the University La Sapienza of Rome, stated.  If one of the vessels were attacked by a drone, what could the Italian vessel do? If it were to happen, it would constitute a use of force prohibited by international law, and the Italian navy vessel would be entitled to respond with necessary and proportionate measures