The Palestinian NGOs Network Deplores Israeli attack on Free Gaza Movement Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza

The Free Gaza flotilla, carrying around 700 pro-Palestinian activists from various countries, as well as approximately 10,000 tones of humanitarian aid, was headed for Gaza on Monday 31 May. While still travelling on international waters, 65 km off the Gaza coast, the flotilla’s lead vessel was stormed by Israeli forces, killing around 16 pro-Palestinian activists and injuring many more. Unofficial figures put the death toll at around 20.

Since Hamas’ takeover of Gaza in June 2007, Israel has imposed a blockade on the Strip, and has pursued a policy of isolation and suffocation, which has had a devastating effect on the lives of the residents of Gaza. In addition, Israel has repeatedly battered Gaza with regular military incursions and large scale offensives, characterised by the use of indiscriminate and disproportionate force, during which the civilian population, has suffered the heaviest toll.

The latest and deadliest full-scale Israeli incursion in Gaza, “Operation Cast Lead”, caused extensive destruction and severely aggravated the already existing humanitarian crisis. Since then, Israel has prevented needed aid and construction material from entering Gaza, thwarting the reconstruction of the Strip and deepening the crisis.

The Free Gaza Flotilla, loaded with essential goods and construction materials for the people of Gaza, came under Israeli attack. Today’s actions show that Israel is willing to use disproportionate force, not only on Palestinians from Gaza, but also on activists who try to alleviate their situation.

We strongly condemn Israel’s actions, and call on the international community to hold those responsible for these actions accountable for their actions. The attack on the Free Gaza Flotilla on international waters is an act of piracy which contravenes basic norms of international law. We stress the fact that the Gaza blockade amounts to collective punishment, prohibited by the Fourth Geneva Convention.

Signatories :

The Palestinian NGOs Network - PNGO

Defence for Children International - Palestine Section