The Free Gaza Movement is a collective of very brave folks who have been breaking the siege of Gaza since August 2008, using small boats to run the Israeli naval blockade and bring supplies and people to Gaza.
After five successful trips in as many months, the Free Gaza ship Dignity was rammed by the Israeli Navy on the night of December 30, 2008, while trying to deliver humanitarian supplies during the opening days of Operation Cast Lead. The Dignity was nearly sunk and had to make an emergency landing in Lebanon.
The Free Gaza Movement has announced three voyages for this summer, but Israeli officials are stepping up the pressure. The first voyage, which was scheduled to leave today from Cyprus, is being held up by Cypriot officials (under pressure from Israel) who are now claiming that the boats have not passed inspection (pretty ridiculous since the boats arrived safely in Cyprus from other ports) and are telling crew they may destroy the boats (!) if a long list of never-previously-required documents is not produced. Many suspect that their real crime is trying to deliver 15 tons of cement, an infinitesimal fraction of what is needed to rebuild Gaza.
Former US Representative and 2008 Green Party presidential candidate Cynthia McKinney, who was on the aborted December voyage of the Dignity, is also participating in the current FGM voyage. You can hear a great interview with her here and follow the progress of the boats here.
Supporters are urged to call the Cyprus Mission to the UN in New York at (212) 481-6023 and the Cypriot Embassy in DC at (202) 462-5772 to demand that the boats be allowed to sail.
[UPDATE 6/26: They expect to be able to sail Monday or Tuesday. Follow freegazaorg on Twitter or on their website for updates.]
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