Overview
- The Freedom Flotilla Coalition announced that its international mission is under way, and the group’s two lead vessels have been calling at European ports as they head for a planned attempt to reach Gaza in October.
- Handala II completed port visits in Norway, Sweden and Denmark this summer and the Kate left Bristol in August before stopping in Ireland, Germany and France, with further calls planned in Spain, Portugal and Italy.
- Organisers say the flotilla brings together human rights advocates, trade unionists, elected officials, journalists and medical staff to deliver aid, show solidarity and generate public and diplomatic pressure.
- The coalition is urging states to guarantee safe passage, block weapons and energy shipments to Israel, end military and diplomatic cooperation, and consider sanctions to force unrestricted access for food, water and medicine.
- The organisers stress the mission carries serious risk because Israeli forces intercepted previous flotillas and rights groups, including Amnesty International, documented alleged beatings, tasering, sexual abuse and other ill-treatment, while UN agencies report severe water, sanitation and casualty crises inside Gaza.