Foreign ministers from 16 countries on Tuesday called for respect of international law and urged against any illegal actions targeting the “Freedom Flotilla,” which is sailing toward Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge Israel’s blockade.

The joint statement was issued by the foreign ministers of Turkey, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, and Spain.

The ministers expressed concern over the safety of citizens from their countries participating in the flotilla, stressing that its mission is to address Gaza’s urgent humanitarian needs and raise global awareness of the need to end the war.

As of Sunday evening, 16 vessels had departed from the Tunisian ports of Gammarth, Bizerte, and Sidi Bou Said, bound for the besieged enclave.