Why it matters:
Despite the Israeli regime's attack on the Sumud aid flotilla and the arrest of the crew, the launch of a second convoy to break the siege of Gaza reflects the international determination to deliver humanitarian aid and express solidarity with the people of Gaza.
The big picture:
While the second flotilla carrying aid to the people of Gaza— consisting of dozens of social activists and members of parliament— makes its way toward the Gaza coast, the Ma'ariv newspaper has reported that Israeli army forces are preparing to intercept it.
What they are saying:
A prominent activist on board the Sumud flotilla recounted the harsh treatment they received during their detention by Israeli occupation forces: "Following our arrest, we were deprived of medicine; they only gave us water after 32 hours. Food was provided with difficulty. They woke us up at 3 a.m. with dogs and sharpshooters entering our rooms. They woke us up every two hours to prevent us from sleeping. If they treated us, innocent civilians, this way, one can only imagine how they treat average Palestinians."
Key points:
- The Israeli Navy is poised to confront the humanitarian flotilla, expected to reach Gaza shores tomorrow night.
- Key vessels in the convoy include a Turkish ship managed by the Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH), carrying social activists and members of the Turkish parliament.
- Reports suggest that the U.S. is pressuring Turkey to halt the ship's participation in the convoy.
Go deeper:
The Global Sumud flotilla, comprising more than 40 civilian ships and approximately 500 people— including members of parliament, lawyers, and social activists— was attacked by Israeli forces. Several vessels in the convoy were intercepted, and their passengers were transferred to a port in the occupied territories. Activists say the flotilla was intended to deliver medical and food aid to Gazans suffering under the ongoing Israeli attacks. They were protesting a genocide being carried out inside Gaza by Israeli occupation forces.
Zohre Khazaee - ahmad shirzadian
