Statement published by the Global Sumud Flotilla.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

In a matter of days, the Global Sumud Flotilla will reach the shores of Tunisia, where we will be joined by additional vessels before continuing our journey to Gaza’s shores, carrying lifesaving humanitarian aid. We will not be deterred by the baseless threats of Israeli officials. Our mission is humanitarian, lawful, and unstoppable.

To that end, the Global Sumud Flotilla strongly condemns the threats by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir in an attempt to intimidate our participants and falsely brand them as ‘terrorists.’ Such threats are not only baseless and unjust, but constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions. Israel’s colonial-settler occupation has long weaponized such tactics and used them against the Palestinian people -criminalizing, brutalizing and dehumanizing them, as well as silencing peaceful protests and humanitarian solidarity with Palestinians – in a desperate attempt to suppress global calls for justice. This latest attempt to intimidate our coalition is a continuation of the similar violent strategy used against Palestinian civilians, journalists, medics, and international activists who dare to stand against apartheid and genocide.

Under international law, Gaza’s 40km-long Mediterranean coastline is controlled by the people of Gaza. The people of Gaza have the right to receive ships, goods, and people through their territorial waters. Furthermore, Palestinians should have sovereign rights to use their own sea for trade, fishing, and travel. However, since 2007, Palestinians have been victims of a comprehensive illegal sea, air, and land blockade imposed by the Israeli occupation.

The Global Sumud Flotilla stands united in its humanitarian mission to deliver urgently needed food, water, and medical supplies to the Palestinian people enduring a catastrophic genocide, famine, and spiraling health crisis caused by Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza. Our coalition – representing 44 countries – comprises doctors, nurses, elected representatives, journalists, and human rights advocates committed solely to alleviating human suffering.

We call on the international community, the United Nations, and all governments to stand firmly with us and guarantee our safe passage into Gaza. Furthermore, we invite independent observers and media to join us in documenting our voyage to ensure full transparency and accountability.

No intimidation, no smear campaign, and no act of brutality can silence the global demand for justice, dignity, and humanitarian aid. We have come together to do all we can to break the blockade and deliver hope to Gaza’s children and families.

Press Contact:
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Email: media@globalsumudflotilla.org
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