A freedom flotilla attempting to get much-needed aid to starving Gazans in war-torn Palestine is being hampered by Israeli forces, according to a statement by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC).
They say the small African nation of Guinea Bissau has withdrawn its flag from two of the three ships planned to sail to Gaza.
‘Without a flag, the ships are not authorised to leave Istanbul port and sail into international waters’, they said. ‘This is wasting critical time that the people in Gaza do not have’.
FFC says, ‘Guinea Bissau’s decision is the result of underhanded Israeli political pressure on the small country. The FFC are now searching for a willing country to offer their flag as a replacement’.
Local man Surya McEwen on board
Local man Surya McEwen, has joined the FFC, and is one of three Australians committed to the cause.
All three are in Istanbul, says FCC.
‘Some of the human rights observers that were to participate in the mission have decided to return to their respective countries owing to the delay.
‘Many have said they will return, and some have said they will be encouraging more applicants to join them.
‘We are imploring on the media to highlight this mission, and in doing so, apply pressure on the Australian government to support our Australian representatives, Surya McEwen, Daniel Coward and Helen O’Sullivan, and ensure this aid reaches Gaza’.
