Alexandria: Activists aboard an 11-boat aid convoy sailing to the Israel-blockaded Gaza Strip appealed for international protection on Sunday as their mission is nearing the enclave. 'We are close to the possible interception point, and call to the international community to ensure the safety that we are entitled under international law,' the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) said in a statement.
According to Anadolu Agency, 'The Thousands of Madleens' convoy reached the coast of Alexandria off Egypt's coast early Sunday, around 560 kilometers (348 miles) from Gaza, in a new bid to challenge Israel's illegal blockade on the Palestinian enclave. The FFC made a strong appeal to European governmental and judicial institutions, expressing their concern as they sail towards Gaza. The convoy includes deputies, journalists, doctors, nurses, sailors, and citizens, all participating in what they consider a lawful and authorized humanitarian mission.
Organizers reported receiving 'alarming testimonies' from Global Sumud Flotilla activists concerning abuse, violence, and torture during their detention in Israel, which support organizations have confirmed. Israeli naval forces had previously attacked and seized vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla, detaining more than 470 activists from over 50 countries who were attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The FFC urgently called for the enforcement of international, humanitarian, and maritime law, urging sanctions against Israel. They questioned the purpose of institutions if not to protect citizens and ensure respect for the rule of law.
The FFC, a network of international civil society groups, has organized multiple attempts since 2010 to break the blockade of Gaza and highlight its humanitarian crisis. Israel has maintained the blockade of Gaza, home to nearly 2.4 million people, for almost 18 years. Since October 2023, Israeli bombardments have killed more than 67,000 Palestinians in the enclave, most of them women and children, rendering it uninhabitable and pushing Gaza towards famine.