Background on the Situation in Gaza
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, devastated by war and under siege by Israel, has led to a dire humanitarian crisis. The United Nations warns that the Palestinian territory faces potential famine due to the blockade imposed by Israel.
The Start of the Conflict
The conflict began on October 7, 2023, following an unprecedented attack by Hamas commandos on Israeli territory. In retaliation, Israel launched a devastating offensive in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians.
Israel’s Blockade on Gaza
On March 2, 2023, Israel enforced a total blockade on humanitarian aid entering Gaza, exacerbating the crisis.
The Humanitarian Mission
The Madleen, a sailboat belonging to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), set sail from Sicily on Sunday, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge the Israeli blockade of Gaza.
- Crew: The ship is carrying 12 activists, including renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg.
- Route: The Madleen is currently navigating off the coast of Egypt, with an expected arrival in Gaza on Monday morning.
- Supplies: The ship carries essential supplies such as fruit juices, milk, rice, canned goods, and protein bars donated by hundreds of Catania residents.
Challenges Faced by the Crew
Despite their mission, the crew has reported multiple drone sightings in recent days. According to a video posted by the coalition on social media, a Greek coast guard drone reportedly flew over the Madleen on Tuesday night.
International Support
More than 200 European parliamentarians have signed an open letter urging Israel to allow the Madleen to reach Gaza. Among the passengers is French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan, further emphasizing the international support for this humanitarian mission.
Legal and Safety Concerns
The International Committee to Break the Siege of Gaza, a member of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, has stated that any interception of the Madleen would constitute a “flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.” The committee is in contact with international legal authorities to ensure the safety of those on board.
Crew Composition
The crew consists of activists from Germany, France, Brazil, Turkey, Sweden, Spain, and the Netherlands.
