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Geneva, In a strong plea for humanitarian access, United Nations experts today demanded that Israel allow safe passage for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which is preparing to deliver vital aid to the Gaza Strip.
According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Flotilla, departing from Türkiye, is carrying 5,500 tonnes of humanitarian supplies and is accompanied by hundreds of international observers. As it approaches Palestinian territorial waters, the experts stress Israel’s obligation under international law and directives from the International Court of Justice to permit the unobstructed delivery of humanitarian assistance.
The UN experts condemned the siege and violence against the Palestinians in Gaza, describing the 17-year blockade and subsequent measures as genocidal actions that have led to a severe humanitarian crisis. They labeled the restriction of humanitarian aid and targeting of aid workers as failures to comply with international obligations. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, comprised of human rights activists from various professions, seeks to challenge the blockade by delivering aid and supporting the Palestinian struggle for self-determination.
The experts emphasize that the Flotilla represents a wider international movement advocating for the end of the crisis in Gaza, which has inflicted extensive trauma on the Palestinian people. They criticize countries that continue to support Israel with resources and political backing, potentially implicating them in the alleged violations.
Highlighting the Freedom Flotilla’s right to navigate freely in international waters, the experts remind Israel of the grave incident in 2010 when Israeli forces intercepted the Flotilla, resulting in the death and injury of several participants. With the world’s attention, the UN experts advocate for the safe and peaceful transit of the current mission.