Gaza Herald – The Global Freedom Flotilla has expanded its mission to break the siege on Gaza, announcing that the Italian humanitarian group Emergency will send its 51-meter rescue vessel Life Support to join the convoy. The ship, usually deployed for migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean, will this time carry medical and logistical support for Gaza.
With the addition of Life Support, the flotilla now consists of dozens of boats and hundreds of activists from 44 countries, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. On Thursday, the group also confirmed that Mandla Mandela, grandson of the late South African leader Nelson Mandela, has joined the mission.
The flotilla has been sailing in the Mediterranean for four consecutive days. Nearly 20 ships set out last Sunday from Barcelona, Spain, followed by another convoy that departed from Genoa, Italy, early Monday. Organizers say the vessels are expected to meet another group leaving Tunisia this coming Sunday before continuing their joint journey toward Gaza.
As the flotilla presses on, activists hope their mission will shine an international spotlight on the blockade of Gaza, while carrying not just symbolic solidarity but also urgently needed humanitarian support.
