UPDATE: New Captain Juliet Lamont is heading to Sicily to coordinate Australia’s participation in the 2026 Global Sumud Flotilla, set to depart on March 30, 2026. This urgent mission aims to break the illegal blockade on Gaza, delivering essential humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and baby formula.
Lamont, who previously served as First Mate under Captain Hamish Paterson, is returning to lead her own vessel, driven by a commitment to peace and humanitarian action. Despite her traumatic experience in an Israeli prison during last year’s flotilla, she is determined to make a difference once again.
In a powerful statement, Lamont emphasized, “Civilians in Palestine are living in a bombed-out wasteland without functioning utilities, fresh water, or adequate food.” She expressed the urgency of the situation, noting that over 400 Palestinians, including children, have been killed despite the so-called ceasefire.
The flotilla, which will feature representatives from 46 countries, is designed as a non-violent action aimed at raising awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “We always go in peace,” Lamont asserted. “Everyone in the flotilla is non-violent. We’re trained for weeks in non-violent action before we get on the boats.”
Lamont’s commitment to participate in the flotilla is underscored by recent events, including the Bondi mass shooting, which she cites as a pivotal moment in her resolve to advocate for peace. She stated, “I’m anti-genocide and anti-deaths, whether it’s Jewish or Muslim people.”
In preparation for the flotilla, Lamont is raising funds for the mission. Interested supporters can contribute at chuffed.org/project/164590-fundraiser-for-flotilla-participants-taking-life-saving-aid-to-gaza. She also invites anyone interested in joining the flotilla to learn more at globalsumudflotilla.org.
Lamont will be joined by both her daughters, Isla (24) and Luca (26), as well as local sailors including Surya McEwen, who also participated in last year’s flotilla. During the previous mission, the closest ships reached 20 nautical miles (37 km) from Gaza before being intercepted.
The flotilla operates on the principle that people from various backgrounds can unite for social change. Lamont shared that many Jewish Australians have reached out to express their desire to support efforts to end the war in Gaza, indicating a growing movement for peace within the community.
As preparations intensify, the world watches closely. The flotilla’s mission is not just a symbolic gesture but a crucial step in advocating for humanitarian rights and the urgent need for peace in the region.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
