VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Activists gathered in Valletta on Thursday evening in solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which was intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The flotilla, made up of over 50 boats and nearly 1,000 international volunteers, sought to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Among those on board were climate activist Greta Thunberg, Mandla Mandela, Italian parliamentarians, journalists, doctors, and artists.
According to organisers, Israeli naval forces stopped the vessels in international waters around 70 nautical miles from Gaza. At least 200 volunteers were arrested and 13 boats confiscated, though about 30 boats remain en route to the territory.
The interception sparked protests worldwide, including in Malta, where a sizeable crowd gathered in front of Parliament. Demonstrators carried Palestinian flags and placards while chanting against Israel’s actions, which they described as part of the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
Organisers urged Malta to back a total arms embargo and sanctions on Israel, to publicly condemn the attacks on the flotilla, and to ensure the protection of detained activists.
The protest follows Malta’s recent recognition of the State of Palestine, a move that came decades after most countries had already taken the step. Activists argued that Malta should now go further by taking stronger political action in support of Palestinian rights.
– Photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
