Organizers of the International Freedom Flotilla announced that the ship “Handala” is preparing to set sail in the coming hours toward the Gaza Strip, in a new symbolic attempt to break the long-standing Israeli blockade imposed on the coastal enclave for over 17 years.

The ship carries a number of international activists, along with limited medical supplies and humanitarian aid. According to the organizers, the mission aims not only to deliver aid but also to draw international attention to the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

A statement from the International Coalition to Break the Siege read:

“Handala represents the voice of free people against injustice and stands as a symbol of resistance to the siege imposed on over two million civilians.”

Despite repeated Israeli warnings against approaching Gaza’s territorial waters, participants remain committed to the journey, stressing that their action is entirely peaceful and civilian in nature, and backed by broad legal and popular support.

The voyage is expected to spark political and security reactions, especially as similar attempts in previous years were intercepted by the Israeli navy.