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Activist flotillas unite to challenge Gaza blockade and deliver aid
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) and the Thousand Madleens to Gaza (TMTG) have joined forces in a renewed effort to break Israel’s blockade on Gaza. They aim to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians facing critical shortages of food and medical supplies. This civilian-led maritime initiative is set to depart from Catania, Italy, on September 24, with plans to unite with the Global Sumud Flotilla, which began its journey from Bizerte, Tunisia, on September 14.
In a joint statement, the groups emphasized their shared commitment to justice and solidarity with the Palestinian people. They described the initiative as part of a broader legacy of resistance against the siege, which began with the Free Gaza Movement in 2008 and has been continued by the FFC since 2010.
The flotillas aim to confront what they describe as the international community’s complicity in Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. "We sail to break the siege, defy complicity, and affirm the rights of Palestinians in Gaza," the FFC announced. The coalition accuses governments, institutions, and corporations of failing to uphold their responsibilities under international law to stop what they call genocide and apartheid in Gaza.
Coordinating a global movement
The Thousand Madleens to Gaza initiative is a civilian-led coalition working to mobilize 1,000 humanitarian vessels from across the globe. Departure points have been organized in countries such as France, Denmark, Türkiye, and Tunisia. Meanwhile, the Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of at least 40 vessels carrying hundreds of activists from over 40 countries, is progressing toward Gaza despite delays caused by alleged Israeli attacks.
Previous FFC missions have faced significant challenges, including sabotage and direct attacks by Israeli forces. Earlier this year, other vessels like the Conscience, Madleen, and Handala attempted to reach Gaza but were intercepted before completing their journeys. Despite these setbacks, the activists remain undeterred, continuing their efforts to deliver essential aid and advocate for Palestinian rights.
The groups hope that the combined strength of their coordinated flotillas will create a global impact, drawing attention to the plight of Palestinians in Gaza and pressuring world governments to take action against the blockade.