The committee said the ship Al-Dhamir (Conscience), carrying international doctors and journalists, departed from the Italian port of Otranto and is now heading toward Gaza.
Protests and rallies in Tunisia, Mauritania, Turkey, Algeria and Jordan have been organized to support the flotilla’s mission to defy the blockade.
The committee criticized Italy’s government and military, saying the Italian navy escorted the flotilla only up to the danger zone before attempting to turn it back.
It said the ships will not retreat, insisting the mission “will never fail.”
The group stressed that Israel’s blockade of Gaza is illegal and criminal, adding that global silence is intolerable.
“If Italy wants to prove courage, it must continue to escort us,” the statement said.
The flotilla accused Italy of acting as “a tool in the hands of Israel” instead of backing international volunteers.
The committee said the ships are now 175 nautical miles off Gaza’s coast and will enter a highly dangerous area tonight, demanding guarantees of a safe passage.
It warned that any Israeli attack would be “an assault on Palestine itself,” holding the international community responsible for the safety of the passengers.
Reports indicate Israel is preparing to confront the flotilla.
Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth quoted an occupation official as saying forces are “ready for any scenario.”
“We do not know if the ships heading to Gaza carry weapons,” the official said. “We are prepared for all situations.”
Maria Elena Delia, an Italian spokesperson for the flotilla, said activists are bracing for an imminent assault.
“Israel will probably attack us tonight,” she said. “All signs point to that happening.”