International activists from the **Freedom Flotilla Coalition** have embarked on a mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, challenging the ongoing blockade imposed by Israel. The ship, named **Handala**, set sail from the southern port city of **Gallipoli**, Italy, five days ago. It carries vital supplies meant for the besieged population of Gaza, where nearly every child—over **1.1 million**—is at risk of starvation, according to **Save the Children**.
This mission follows a previous attempt when another vessel, the **Madleen**, was raided by the Israeli military and seized in international waters. **Huwaida Arraf**, a Palestinian American human rights attorney and a key figure in the Freedom Flotilla, is among the 21 volunteers aboard the Handala. Arraf has participated in these missions for over a decade and has experienced firsthand the dangers involved, including a **2010** incident where ten activists were killed during a military raid on a flotilla.
Challenges Faced by the Mission
Before departing, the Handala encountered two serious incidents that crew members suspect were attempts at sabotage. Arraf reported that a rope was found tightly wound around the ship’s propeller in a manner that raised suspicions. In another incident, a water truck, instead of delivering fresh water, brought **sulfuric acid**, leading to potential disaster had the crew not noticed the foul smell before connecting the hose.
Despite these challenges, Arraf emphasized the determination of the crew to reach Gaza. “We are focusing on just getting to Gaza. Everyone is safe, and we are determined to deliver humanitarian aid,” she stated.
The crew consists of **19 members**, including journalists and activists from various backgrounds, all united by a common goal: to shed light on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advocate for an end to the blockade. Among those on board is **Chris Smalls**, founder of the **Amazon Labor Union**, who has expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Humanitarian Aid and Political Message
The Handala is carrying not only essential food items but also supplies specifically for children, including baby formula and toys. Arraf explained that the mission is driven by a broader political message: “The blockade must end.” This statement reflects the coalition’s belief that the ongoing blockade is not just a humanitarian issue but a violation of international law.
As the Handala approaches Gaza, the crew faces the threat of being intercepted by Israeli forces. Arraf highlighted the historical context of such actions, noting that previous flotillas have faced violence, including abductions and assaults by Israeli military personnel. The current mission aims to navigate these risks while adhering to international law, emphasizing that their actions are peaceful and humanitarian in nature.
Arraf called on the U.S. government to advocate for the safety of American citizens aboard the vessel and to reconsider its support for policies that contribute to the suffering of the Palestinian people. “We are civilians. We are unarmed. We are carrying humanitarian aid. An attack on us would be an attack on American citizens,” she remarked, urging for greater awareness and support from the American public.
The Handala is expected to arrive in Gaza around **Sunday**, March **10**, 2024, if permitted to dock by Israeli authorities. The mission underscores a persistent international effort to address the humanitarian crises stemming from prolonged conflict and blockade in the region.
As the situation evolves, the crew remains hopeful that their message of solidarity and support for the people of Gaza will resonate globally, bringing attention to the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and a resolution to the ongoing crisis.