In a powerful recounting of recent events, Tommaso Bortolazzi, an Italian activist and captain of the Maria Cristina, one of the vessels in the Global Sumud Flotilla, described his journey to Türkiye after being freed from detention in Israel as the "end of a nightmare." The flotilla, a coalition of more than 40 boats aimed at breaking the Israeli blockade of Gaza and delivering critical humanitarian aid, was violently intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters. Bortolazzi, speaking to Anadolu upon his arrival in Istanbul on Saturday, October 4, 2025, reflected on the harrowing experience, his motivations, and the overwhelming support he received upon landing in Türkiye.
Bortolazzi’s participation in the flotilla was driven by a deep sense of purpose. "Being part of the flotilla to break the Gaza siege was the best thing I could do for the Palestinian people and also for my country," he told Anadolu. His role as captain of the Maria Cristina placed him at the heart of the flotilla’s mission to challenge Israel’s long-standing restrictions on Gaza’s access to goods, people, and humanitarian aid. The Global Sumud Flotilla, a multinational effort, sought to draw global attention to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where Israel has enforced a stringent blockade since 2007. This blockade, which controls Gaza’s airspace, territorial waters, and land crossings, has significantly worsened since the escalation of conflict in October 2023.
The flotilla’s journey, however, was abruptly halted on the evening of October 1, 2025, when Israeli forces attacked the convoy in international waters. The Israeli military illegally seized dozens of boats and ships, detaining hundreds of activists from various nations onboard. Bortolazzi described the final days of his detention as "very hard," particularly highlighting the mistreatment he and his companions endured. Many of his fellow activists were from Türkiye, and he recounted a particularly egregious incident where Israeli soldiers intervened while his companions were praying. "I felt the need to oppose this," Bortolazzi said, underscoring his resolve to stand against what he perceived as unjust actions by the Israeli authorities.
The interception of the flotilla in international waters has sparked widespread condemnation, as it violates international maritime law, which guarantees freedom of navigation. The Global Sumud Flotilla was carrying essential humanitarian supplies, including medical equipment, food, and other necessities, intended to alleviate the suffering of Gaza’s population, which has been grappling with severe shortages due to the blockade. Israel’s control over Gaza’s borders has restricted the flow of goods and people, creating a humanitarian crisis that activists like Bortolazzi sought to address through their peaceful mission.
Upon his release, Bortolazzi and other activists were transported to Istanbul, landing at Istanbul Airport on Saturday afternoon. The warm reception they received in Türkiye was a stark contrast to the hostility they faced during their detention. "It is incredible to see the appreciation received upon arrival in Istanbul," Bortolazzi remarked, expressing deep gratitude to Türkiye for its support. The solidarity shown by the Turkish people and authorities underscored the international backing for the flotilla’s mission and highlighted Türkiye’s role as a vocal critic of Israel’s policies toward Gaza.
The Global Sumud Flotilla’s mission was rooted in a broader struggle for justice and human rights. The blockade of Gaza, which began in 2007 following Hamas’s takeover of the enclave, has been widely criticized by human rights organizations for its devastating impact on the civilian population. The restrictions have limited access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, medicine, and construction materials, while also severely curtailing freedom of movement. The situation deteriorated further after October 2023, when Israel intensified its military operations in Gaza, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. The flotilla’s attempt to deliver aid was a direct challenge to these policies, aiming to provide immediate relief and draw global attention to the crisis.
Bortolazzi’s experience as captain of the Maria Cristina reflects the determination of the activists involved in the flotilla. Despite the risks, including the possibility of detention or violence, participants were united by their commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause. The flotilla included activists from diverse backgrounds, representing a global coalition of individuals and organizations advocating for an end to the blockade. The multinational composition of the flotilla underscored the widespread international concern over Gaza’s plight and the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis.
The Israeli attack on the flotilla has reignited debates about the legality and morality of the Gaza blockade. Critics argue that Israel’s actions, including the seizure of vessels in international waters, violate international law and exacerbate the suffering of Gaza’s residents. Supporters of Israel’s policies, however, claim that the blockade is necessary to prevent weapons and materials that could be used for military purposes from reaching Hamas, which Israel and several other countries designate as a terrorist organization. This ongoing debate highlights the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges of delivering humanitarian aid in a highly politicized environment.
For Bortolazzi, the experience was both a personal and political journey. His decision to join the flotilla was driven by a sense of solidarity with the Palestinian people and a belief that his actions could contribute to raising awareness about their plight. The hardships he endured during his detention only strengthened his resolve. The intervention by Israeli soldiers during his companions’ prayers was a particularly poignant moment, as it underscored the broader issues of freedom and dignity that the flotilla sought to address.
The arrival of the activists in Istanbul marked a moment of relief and reflection. For many, including Bortolazzi, it was an opportunity to process the trauma of their detention while celebrating the solidarity shown by their hosts in Türkiye. The Turkish government and public have long been vocal supporters of the Palestinian cause, and their warm reception of the activists was a testament to this commitment. Türkiye’s role as a hub for humanitarian and political activism in the region has been reinforced by its response to the flotilla incident, with many activists expressing gratitude for the country’s hospitality and advocacy.
As the international community continues to grapple with the Gaza crisis, the Global Sumud Flotilla’s mission serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots activism. Despite the risks and challenges, activists like Bortolazzi remain committed to their cause, driven by a belief in justice and human rights. The flotilla’s interception may have halted their immediate efforts, but it has also amplified their message, drawing renewed attention to the blockade and its impact on Gaza’s population.
Looking forward, the activists hope their experience will inspire further action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Bortolazzi’s journey, from the high seas to an Israeli detention center to the welcoming embrace of Istanbul, encapsulates the resilience and determination of those involved in the flotilla. His story is a testament to the enduring spirit of solidarity and the belief that collective action can make a difference, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
The Global Sumud Flotilla’s mission, though interrupted, has left an indelible mark on the global conversation about Gaza. For Bortolazzi and his companions, the fight for justice continues, fueled by the support they have received and the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As they regroup and reflect, the activists remain steadfast in their commitment to breaking the siege and advocating for a future where the people of Gaza can live with dignity and freedom.
