An international aid flotilla carrying humanitarian supplies and activists from across the world has resumed its voyage to Gaza after pausing in Greek waters for several days of repairs.

Organizers of the Global Sumud Flotilla announced on Sunday that the mission is now “complete” with the addition of Greek vessels, bringing the total to 47 civilian boats. Activists say their goal is to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza and deliver aid directly to the besieged territory.

“Brothers and sisters in Gaza, we sail with hope in our hearts. Your resilience is our compass, your struggle is our struggle. Together, we will break the silence of the siege,” the flotilla wrote on social media.

Among the hundreds of passengers are about 40 Italians and participants from dozens of other countries, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg. They hope to reach Gaza with humanitarian supplies within the coming week.

Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, repeated his proposal that the flotilla redirect its aid to Cyprus, where the Roman Catholic Church could oversee distribution to Gaza. Organizers, however, firmly rejected the plan.

Tajani cautioned that attempting to breach Israel’s blockade carries serious risks:

“We have always said … that it is dangerous to approach Israeli waters. We don’t know what might happen. Forcing the blockade is dangerous,” he told reporters.

The mission has already faced hostile encounters. On Wednesday, the flotilla was struck in international waters off Crete by drones firing stun grenades and irritants. While the attack caused damage to vessels, no injuries were reported.

Israel has not commented on the incident but has previously stated it will use any means necessary to prevent unauthorised ships from reaching Gaza. Israeli authorities maintain that the blockade is legal under international law as part of their ongoing conflict with Hamas.

To monitor the situation, Italy and Spain have deployed naval ships near the flotilla for rescue and humanitarian assistance if needed.

Since October 7th 2023, more than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s health authorities.

The Global Sumud Flotilla insists it will press on, declaring that the mission is not only about aid delivery but also about breaking what they describe as the “silence of the siege.