News / Gaza
Bristol marks launch of Global Sumud Flotilla
People in Bristol, as well as around the world, have come together in a show of solidarity to mark the launch of a fleet of boats hoping to break the siege on Gaza by sea.
While other boats have tried, the Global Sumud Flotilla, will be the first at this scale.
Despite the relentless rain, more than 100 people gathered at the Cascade Steps to show their support and raise awareness as the ship departs today from Barcelona.
is needed now More than ever
The Global Movement for Gaza organised the gathering
Many different organisations and individuals are involved, but the majority of particpants are from the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, Global Movement to Gaza, and the Sumud Nusantara.
They are hoping that the sheer number of ships coordinated from across different countries will see the creation of a humanitarian corridor by sea.
Currently only a small amount of aid enters Israel under strict conditions, with many NGOs struggling to distribute what they have.
The UN says 600 trucks of supplies a day are needed in Gaza and that is no where near being fulfilled.
The launch of the boat is being marked across the world
This new attempt follow many previous attempts, but more recently by the Madleen ship which ended unsuccessfully on June 9 when Israeli forces seized it and its passengers, including Greta Thunberg.
The gathering on Sunday, organised by the Global Movement for Gaza, set up a tent with merchandise and cakes to raise funds for the trip.
One of the organisers said it is “crucial for the safety of the crew” that they continue to raise awareness
A video stream that follows the ships progress will soon be online.
All photos: Rob Browne
Read next:
- Vigils held across city against Israel’s ‘deliberate’ killing of journalists in Gaza
- Protesters ask motorists to ‘hoot for Gaza’
- Pro-Palestine protesters call for insurance firm to ‘pick a side’
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
