• The Global Sumud Flotilla is nearing the Gaza coast to deliver humanitarian aid amidst political tensions in Italy.
• Italy’s naval support will cease as the flotilla approaches the 150 nautical mile limit from Gaza.
• Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warns that the flotilla could jeopardize peace efforts in the region.
• Activists on board, including Greta Thunberg, insist on continuing their mission despite potential risks.
• Italy's right-wing government strongly criticizes the flotilla, while the center-left offers support.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising 46 boats, is progressing towards the Gaza coasts, reported to be about 150 nautical miles from the interception zone. The mission aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the Palestinian enclave amidst a backdrop of political division in Italy, where the center-left opposition supports the flotilla while the right-wing government, led by Giorgia Meloni, labels it as "irresponsible," fearing it might ignite a diplomatic incident with Israel. Meloni remarked, "Any other choice risks becoming a pretext for preventing peace," highlighting the delicate balance of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which she believes the flotilla could threaten, according to aa and BBC.

As the flotilla approaches the high-risk zone, Italy's navy has communicated plans to withdraw once the boats are 150 nautical miles from the shore, with naval support halting to avoid confrontation with Israel. Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized this decision was made to avoid diplomatic conflicts, stating that the naval frigate would issue warnings to the flotilla before withdrawing. The activists, however, maintain their intention to continue, asserting that humanitarian aid should not be redirected, according to Reuters.

The diversity in response towards the flotilla reveals a stark political divide in Italy. While officials from Meloni's government urge for a compromise where aid could be delivered to Cyprus instead, activists onboard remain defiant, stating, "The Italian navy will not derail this mission," referencing their commitment to breaking the ongoing blockade. The Global Sumud Flotilla, which includes prominent figures such as Greta Thunberg, has faced increasing scrutiny amid allegations that it might be influenced by Hamas; however, the group asserts that their mission is humanitarian, according to BBC, Reuters, and aa.