Mr. Edip VARDARLI
Messages of support and protests for Palestine continue unabated worldwide. The Sumud Flotilla’s initiative to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza is combined with international solidarity, support from artists, and public protests.
Sumud Flotilla Sets Off: International Solidarity for Humanitarian Aid
The Global Sumud Flotilla, with its first 20 boats departing from Barcelona on August 31st, aims to peacefully break the naval blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid, with additional boats from Tunisia and Italy joining on September 4th. Organizers are also calling on people on the ground:
“Organize mini-flots. Fly the Palestinian flag on pedal boats, inflatable boats, and sailboats. Record your actions as videos and send them to us. Every voice matters. Every action is a sign of humanity. Gaza is not alone.”
Messages of support for the flotilla are also emerging from Tunisia. Locals and social media users have wished the participants safety and success.
Dockers from Italy announced that they will provide logistical support to the Sumud Flotilla and may halt shipments of goods to israel: “If our boats are disconnected for more than 20 minutes, we will block Europe. We will attract international attention.”
Voices from America and israel: Protests Rising
Some US soldiers addressed citizens, criticizing israel’s actions and calling for protests: “Every American must realize they are paying for genocide while sitting at home. Stand up and take back our country from these corrupt politicians.”
Thousands of people from israel gathered at the border and protested for the deaths of children, the blockade, and the release of prisoners. Activists emphasized that they see israeli-Palestinian peace as the only solution.
Protests in Europe and Around the World
• Netherlands (The Hague): 100,000 activists demanded that the Netherlands stop providing arms to israel and respect international law.
• Italy: Dockworkers and unions threatened to halt goods shipments to israel.
• Greece: israeli soldiers arriving for vacation were protested by locals chanting, “You’re not wanted here, get out!”
• Australia (Melbourne): Hairdresser Katrina Ann Smith dismissed her israeli client, saying, “You’re a baby killer.” This stance stood out as an honorable one, despite lynching campaigns on social media.
• Türkiye (Istanbul): British and Turkish participants supported the “Give Hope to Gaza” march. Foreign participants emphasized their support for Palestine.
International Aid: The Example of Spain
Spain sent 12 tons of food aid to Gaza. The aid was delivered by A400 aircraft and carried out despite israel’s ban on aerial imagery. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez championed the vision of a post-capitalist society and emphasized Spain’s continued opposition to Western imperialism.
Conclusion: Global Solidarity and Hope
The world has risen up for Gaza. Protests, social media support, the voices of artists, and the peaceful initiative of the Sumud Flotilla are concrete examples of international solidarity and humanity. The message that Gaza is not alone is spreading globally.
