Azra Hoosen | ah@radioislam.co.za
26 April 2024 | 13:00 CAT
4 min read

The Freedom Flotilla, equipped with over 5000 tons of aid and 800 activists from over 30 nations, is set to depart for Gaza on Friday, April 26, 2024. Reports in Israeli media suggest that the Israeli authorities are preparing to intercept it. Despite challenges, the coalition aims to ensure that aid reaches Palestinians without interference. With millions worldwide backing their cause, the coalition demands governments uphold international law and ensure safe passage to Gaza.

South African politician and human rights activist Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, who has also joined the Freedom Flotilla bound for Gaza, has asserted that Israel’s intended blockade of the aid ship would violate international law. He underscores the activists’ resolve to challenge Israel’s blockade and siege of Gaza.

Ismail Moola, a member of the FFC team from the Palestine Solidarity Alliance (PSA) in South Africa, sheds light on the FFC’s mission and important work in an interview with Radio Islam.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), comprised of diverse grassroots campaigns worldwide, embarks on a mission to challenge Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza, which has inflicted over 15 years of humanitarian crisis. With a commitment to non-violence, the coalition aims to raise awareness about the blockade’s devastating impact, condemn complicit governments, and show solidarity with Palestinians. Led by the explicit goals and plans of Gaza residents, FFC’s direct action missions prioritise dignity and humanity, fostering alliances with civil society partners.

“Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) is an institution that has been around for the past 17 years since the siege on Gaza. We have had almost 40 attempts over the years to try and break the siege; the one highlighted in terms of international exposure is the 2010 Mavi Marmara incident, where 9 of our activists were killed. What we are attempting now is not new to us; we have been trying for a long time,” he said.

Moola highlighted that the groundwork for the current mission began a year ago. These missions involve intricate planning, including the acquisition of seaworthy ships and ensuring the presence of qualified crew members. Securing permission from port authorities to embark on the journey is a lengthy and challenging process. The coalition consists of nearly 30 countries.

The current mission stands out from previous attempts due to its utilisation of larger boats, marking a unique approach. Interest and support have surged notably since the events of October 7th, making this endeavour particularly significant.

“The reality is that the flotilla was supposed to have left 10 days ago; we have been trying to get cooperation from the port authorities to let us sail, but time is just going on, so we have decided to embark on our mission on Friday morning, 26 April 2024. If there is any action from the port authorities, we will deal with it at that point. Regarding the direction we sail, it is a straight line to Gaza; it will take us next to 4 days to reach Gaza, and we don’t need to stop at any other ports. But from previous experience, when we come to about 20 or 40 nautical miles from the coast of Gaza, we are intercepted in international waters,” he said.

In 2010, Israeli forces intercepted a six-boat flotilla in international waters, notably boarding the largest vessel, the Mavi Marmara. A UN report revealed that live fire from a helicopter and commando boats resulted in the deaths of nine passengers, with one more dying later from wounds sustained. Individuals considering participation in the current flotilla undergo comprehensive training to avert such tragedies.

“Our participants go through a very stringent non-violent training process, so when we are attacked, we do not put any resistance because resistance inflames the situation, and we don’t want to lose anyone. We go through live role plays so participants know what to expect and how to react,” said Moola.

Member and partner organisations spanning continents collaborate in this solidarity movement, advocating for freedom, equality, and human rights for all.

“The current delegation comprises representatives from various international countries not affiliated with the FFC. These individuals are ordinary citizens, willing to undertake significant risks driven by their unwavering belief that no sacrifice is too great to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people,” said Moola.

Moola elaborated that they’ve introduced a virtual boat to Gaza for individuals who wish to support the initiative but may lack the time, financial means, or health to board a boat physically. Through the https://boattogaza.com/ website, supporters can register their names and become virtual passengers. This allows anyone interested in joining the cause to participate remotely and symbolically be part of the journey.

“We get our inspiration from the Palestinian people, who get up every day and face challenges. As long as they inspire us, we remain firm,” he said.

You can stay updated on the latest information by following the Freedom Flotilla on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook. Search for “Freedom Flotilla” on any of these platforms, and you’ll find their official accounts, where they regularly post updates as information becomes available.

LISTEN to the full interview with Ml Junaid Kharsany and Ismail Moola, FFC member from the PSA, here.