The Freedom Flotilla, a coalition of organizations from different countries, is preparing three ships to charter to Gaza with over 5,000 tons of humanitarian aid. The goal is to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip. Activists, including Ada Colau, Martina Velarde, Nerea Fernández, and former US diplomat Ann Wright, are gathering in Istanbul for the mission. However, the departure of the Flotilla is uncertain due to delays and political conditions in Turkey.
Activists denounce the Israeli blockade as a violation of international law and collective punishment to the civilian population, calling it a war crime. The Flotilla aims to bring humanitarian aid and medical supplies to Gaza. Ships are being loaded in Turkey and activists from over thirty countries will be on board. The international community’s inaction and Israel’s non-compliance with UN resolutions are also highlighted.
The main promoter of the Freedom Flotilla 2024 is the Turkish organization IHH, which Israel previously banned. In 2010, an incident involving Israeli soldiers and Turkish activists led to a breakdown in diplomatic relations. Despite previous attempts, the Flotilla has not been able to sail due to sabotage or interception by Israeli or Greek authorities. Pressure from the US, Canada, and the EU on Turkey adds to the delays in the current mission.
The Turkish government has not yet decided on the Flotilla’s departure, facing pressure from domestic and international sources. President Erdogan is in a delicate position as he tries to mediate in the conflict while addressing voter demands for action. The Israeli government is preparing for different scenarios in case the Flotilla arrives, but they hope it gets postponed indefinitely.