Video interviews and footage are available from participants and supporters, including strong visual content already circulating on social media. Search "Global Sumud Flotilla" on Instagram or use the above link to our files
For Immediate Release
15 May 2026
Australians continue Gaza aid mission despite recent kidnappings, beatings
11 Australians departed from Türkiye on Thursday night (Australian time) in the final phase of the Global Sumud Flotilla mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and break Israel's illegal naval blockade. They are joined by around 500 participants from almost 50 countries.
Organisers say interception remains a significant risk from Friday night onwards as vessels sail through international waters toward Gaza.
Five of the 11 Australians currently sailing were illegally intercepted by the Israeli navy two weeks ago while traveling from Italy to Greece. 22 flotilla vessels were intercepted and destroyed, and crew members were abducted and held on board an Israeli prison ship for almost two days at sea, reporting violence, abuse and theft of their passports.
Following their release to Greek authorities in Crete, activists have vowed to continue the mission.
The 11 Australians sailing from Türkiye to Gaza are:
- Juliet Lamont
- Isla Lamont
- Anny Mokotow
- Sam Woripa Watson
- Zack Schofield
- Dr Bianca Pullman Webb
- Neve O'Connor
- Surya McEwan
- Helen O'Sullivan
- Violet Coco
- Gemma O'Toole
- Cameron Tribe
Medical professionals sailing with the flotilla, including Australian Dr Bianca Pullman Webb, are available for commentary. Dr Pullman Webb was one of the 180 participants kidnapped by Israel on April 30.
Quotes attributable to Dr Bianca Pullman Webb:
“The siege hasn't ended, the genocide hasn't ended and Israel continues it's crimes with impunity. Breaking the siege is more important than ever. Challenging the siege is the least I can do as a person of conscience. Palestinians, including my medical colleagues, deserve to live and work in safety and freedom.
“I'm tired of the genocide and international inaction. The community on the flotilla and what we're doing gives me hope.”
Additional commentary is available from doctors associated with Mehgreb Organisation and other humanitarian groups such as Dr Mohammed Mustafa and PANZMA.
Nakba Day and National Solidarity Rallies
The flotilla’s departure coincides with Nakba remembrance events. Large rallies are planned across Australia this weekend, connecting the maritime mission with broader public calls for humanitarian access and justice for Palestinians.
Legal Commentary Available
Legal experts are available to comment on the international law issues surrounding the mission.
Humanitarian Mission at a Glance
• Total number of Australian participants: 11
• Total number of vessels: 57
• Weight of humanitarian aid being carried: hundreds of tonnes
• Total number of participants at sea: 500 approx.
Media Assets
Video interviews and footage are available from participants and supporters, including strong visual content already circulating on social media.
Social media video of Australians speaking to why they are sailing
About us:
About the Global Sumud Flotilla
The Global Sumud Flotilla is a civilian-led international initiative bringing together activists, medical professionals and humanitarian advocates to deliver aid to Gaza and draw attention to the ongoing blockade and humanitarian crisis.
Contact details:
Media Contacts for lawyers, participants on water, political commentary, families:
Alexa Stuart 0423 361 030
Jane Salmon 0417 919 354
Subhi Awad: 0408 760 991
