Italy has for days been trying to dissuade the international Global Sumud Flotilla from its risky course to Gaza. President Sergio Mattarella warned that the crossing posed an “irresponsible risk” to those on board. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani even called it a “highly dangerous provocation.” Rome proposed a compromise: the aid could be unloaded in Cyprus and distributed by the Catholic Church—a solution that would have been safe for all involved.

But the flotilla organizers rejected it.

Taking Italy up on its offer would mean recognizing Israel’s blockade. And that’s exactly what the activists do not want. For them, the voyage is less about delivering aid and more about political symbolism. It’s about headlines and images meant to capture global attention.

A powerful moment of solidarity off Crete: 44 ships from Greece, Spain, Tunisia, and Italy have united as one fleet. Despite drone attacks, threats, and smears, we sail together. Next stop: Gaza pic.twitter.com/3Y0MDE7ad4

— Global...

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