The joining of the flotilla from Tunisian soil comes at a time when international organizations are reporting a catastrophic famine in Gaza. Adele Haenel, previously known for her courageous protests against sexual harassment in the French film industry, has once again drawn global attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza with this move.
The actress, who caused a major controversy in 2020 by walking out of the César Awards in protest, publicly bid farewell to the film industry in 2023. She accused the film industry of being a capitalist, patriarchal, racist, and sexist structure. Haenel had previously spoken about being sexually abused in her youth by a French director.
The Global Sumud Flotilla—where “Sumud” means “steadfastness” or “perseverance”—has been described as the largest maritime effort to break the siege on Gaza. The flotilla is composed of dozens of ships and boats that have set sail from various ports, including Barcelona, Spain; Genoa, Italy; and now Tunis. The departure from Tunisia was delayed several times due to unfavorable weather conditions and the late arrival of the fleet from Spain.
Among the participants in this flotilla are other international figures such as Greta Thunberg, the Swedish environmental activist; Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela; Emma Furo, a French politician; and Ada Colau, the former mayor of Barcelona. The flotilla is carrying vital supplies, including medicine, infant formula, food, blankets, and winter clothing for the people of Gaza.
All previous attempts by humanitarian flotillas to reach Gaza, including two efforts in June and July 2025, have been stopped or attacked by Israeli forces. In one such incident, a ship was targeted in a drone attack near Malta in May 2025. Knowing these risks, the organizers of the Sumud Flotilla have emphasized their determination to continue their course.
This symbolic action takes place as, according to the United Nations, Gaza is grappling with a catastrophic famine, with over 500,000 people living in disastrous conditions. Adele Haenel’s joining of the flotilla highlights the intersection of art, civic activism, and human conscience, directing the world’s attention to one of the greatest humanitarian crises of our time.
Faeze Aghamohammadi