Freedom Flotilla 2024: Breaking the Israeli Blockade, Amid Political Tensions and Sabotage

The Freedom Flotilla, a coalition of organizations from various countries, is preparing three ships to charter to Gaza with over 5,000 tons of humanitarian aid. The objective 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 gathered in Istanbul for this mission. However, the departure of the Flotilla remains uncertain due to delays and political conditions in Turkey.

Activists denounce the Israeli blockade as a violation of international law and collective punishment against 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 between Israel and Turkey. 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 Europe on Turkey adds to the delays in this mission.

The Turkish government has yet to decide on whether or not the Flotilla can depart, facing pressure from domestic and international sources alike. President Erdogan is caught between trying to mediate in conflict while addressing voter demands for action at home. Meanwhile, Israel prepares for different scenarios should the Flotilla arrive but hopes it gets postponed indefinitely due to political tensions between Israel and Turkey.”