Handala Flotilla Sets Sail to Gaza for Humanitarian Aid

In mid‑July, a group of volunteers launched a brave mission that has captured global attention. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) set sail on a civilian vessel called Handala from Siracusa, Italy, bound for Gaza to challenge Israel’s years‑long naval blockade of the territory
Freedom Flotilla. The mission, named the Handala flotilla, brings much-needed focus to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

This voyage follows a recent incident involving FFC’s previous vessel, Madleen, laden with life-saving supplies, which was boycotted and seized by Israeli forces in international waters in early June. Twelve unarmed civilians, including a European Parliament member, medics, and journalists, were detained and subsequently deported from Israel to their respective home countries.

Latest images from Gaza show the devastation and cruelty experienced by Palestinian survivors, as frightened and orphaned children roam the streets in search of food, water, medical attention and safety.

The boat is named after the iconic Palestinian character of a refugee child with his back turned towards injustice, created by political cartoonist Naji al-Ali. This character symbolizes the bravery of the Palestinians despite the continued genocide by the Israeli government and the torturous effects of war.

Handala provides a symbol of hope, as it carries a diverse crew of medics, lawyers, journalists, human rights defenders, and community organizers, reflecting a global support network for the people of Gaza. Their cargo includes essential supplies, food, medicine, and baby formula, destined for civilians who have suffered under a total blockade and more than 20 months of conflict.

As the flotilla navigates toward Gaza, it aims not just to deliver relief but to provide hope to the people of Palestine and highlight the severity of the humanitarian crisis to the world, particularly for women, children, and the most vulnerable. Their actions highlight a persistent message that when government intervention falls short, it takes the courage of everyday people to take action and stand up for humanitarian rights.