Pakistan, 15 countries voice concern over security of Global Sumud Flotilla

Pakistan and 15 other countries have jointly expressed serious concern over the safety and security of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led maritime mission aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and break the Israeli naval blockade. In a rare multilateral statement, the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Oman, Qatar, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain and Türkiye called for the flotilla’s protection under international law, as citizens from these countries are participating in the initiative. “We share the objectives of peace and humanitarian aid delivery, together with respect for international law, including humanitarian law,” the joint statement read. The ministers urged all parties to “refrain from any unlawful or violent act” against the flotilla and reminded the international community that any attack on the vessels in international waters or illegal detention of its participants would constitute a violation of international law and would entail “accountability.” From Spain to Gaza The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising over 50 civilian vessels, sailed from Barcelona on August 30, carrying a diverse group of doctors, trade unionists, lawmakers, and prominent human rights and climate activists. The mission is described as the largest of its kind since the 2010 Gaza Freedom Flotilla, which ended in a deadly Israeli raid. Among those on board are American actress Susan Sarandon, Portuguese actress Sofía Aparicio, and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who was previously detained and deported by Israeli authorities in June during a similar attempt to breach the blockade.

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