The Steadfast Fleet Sets Sail for Gaza
in the Largest Attempt to Break the Siege in 17 Years
After more than 17 years of efforts, the “Steadfast
Fleet” marks the 38th attempt in a series of humanitarian missions aimed at
breaking the siege imposed by Israeli occupation forces on the Gaza Strip since
2007.
Over the years, more than 37 ships have tried to reach
the Strip, with only the first five attempts succeeding, while all subsequent
vessels faced Israeli restrictions and piracy. The most recent cases were the
ship Madeleine last June and Hanzala a month later.
This time, the Steadfast Fleet carries a record number
of boats and volunteers, surpassing the total of all previous attempts,
reflecting the accumulation of global solidarity efforts and the participants’
determination to achieve their goal of breaking the siege.
Brazilian activist Tiago Avila, who has taken part in
many of these campaigns, stated that the primary motivation is the suffering of
the Palestinian people under a siege that has lasted 18 years. He emphasized
that their mission is peaceful, aiming to encourage global solidarity and
pressure governments to sever ties with the Israeli occupation.
He added that the goal is not only maritime access but
also creating a political and symbolic impact by highlighting the strength of
humanitarian solidarity.
Activist Yasmin Ajar, a crew member of the Madeleine,
stressed that the number of active participants is the main distinguishing
factor for the Steadfast Fleet. She noted that the mission is not limited to
sailing; it also involves demonstrations, boycotts, and raising awareness
globally.
She affirmed that sustained solidarity, despite
difficulties and repression, represents a cumulative force capable of achieving
symbolic and political results, even if progress appears slow.
Participants note that the current fleet is more than
just a maritime mission; it represents a “global uprising” rejecting violence
and international complicity. They insist that, regardless of arrests or
harassment, they will continue their efforts to show solidarity with Gaza and
break the siege.
Thus, the Steadfast Fleet represents a new phase in
global humanitarian activism, combining determination to confront the
occupation with expanding international solidarity, aiming for a symbolic and
political victory that ensures a humanitarian corridor for Palestinians in
Gaza.
(Source: Agencies)
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