MEHR News Agency, International Desk – Azar Mahdavan: As the war and blockade on Gaza enter a protracted and catastrophic phase, and amid widespread anti-Zionist protests worldwide, a new wave of civilian maritime resistance against the Israeli regime has emerged in defense of Gaza.
Less than two months after the seizure of the Madeleine ship, this time an 18-meter fishing vessel named Hanthala has set sail from Syracuse port in Sicily, Italy, heading into Mediterranean waters to challenge Gaza’s blockade. The ship is part of the ”Freedom Fleet” and carries 15 Palestinian solidarity activists from various countries. Among them are members of the European Parliament and France’s Parliament, volunteer doctors, autonomous journalists, and grassroots campaigners. The vessel is also loaded with symbolic humanitarian aid including medicines, light supplies, and messages of solidarity.
The ship’s name honors ”Hanthala,” an iconic character created by Palestinian cartoonist martyr Naji al-Ali-a child figure who famously turned his back on global injustice. Now this symbol stands on a real deck addressing public opinion worldwide: Gaza is not alone.
A MEHR reporter conducted a video interview with Shoaib Ordu-a human rights activist who was aboard both Madeleine and hanthala ships-speaking from alongside Hanthala about their route, crew composition, maritime risks, experience during Madeleine’s seizure, and why despite threats from Israel there was no option but to take action. The full interview follows.
Are you currently next to the ship?
Yes.
Can you show us the ship?
Certainly. When local people arrived here-children among them-they painted things on it tho originally we had painted it white.
Painted things? What do you mean? Was it disrespectful?
No no-it wasn’t disrespectful at all; they did it as a sign of affection.
I understand. Please go ahead. Where did this vessel depart from? Where is it now? When will its official journey toward Gaza begin? Please explain.
Sorry-I didn’t catch that last part; could you repeat?
Please give details about where it started sailing from; where it currently is; when will its official voyage toward Gaza begin?
The vessel initially left Catania in Sicily (Italy), then moved to Syracuse-which are just hours apart.
The final preparations were made there before setting off with a small farewell ceremony by locals to Gallipoli (another Italian city). The ship will remain at Gallipoli for several days for last-minute fixes before setting off directly for Gaza without any further stops-insha’Allah.
The initial mission began last year but halted due to engine failure while still in Italy. It was supposed to visit various European ports before heading toward Gaza but stayed put because of technical issues-even so most European ports have been visited by now.
Who will be onboard this time?
Besides captain and crew members we have two parliamentarians-from EU Parliament and French Parliament respectively-Jacob Berger from America who is an influencer among us-and also others from USA including Huvida Arafah-and participants from Germany’s campaign team join us too. Sergio might come since he’s an engineer we may need; although not confirmed yet-the core team mostly set though not finalized entirely yet-and frank Romero representing France is onboard too.
In terms of aid: We placed two boxes outside even though only few items are outside-the majority have been stowed within below decks towards bow section covering almost one entire side filled with humanitarian supplies-as previously every available space fills up with aid materials.
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