After the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) lost the state flag for two vessels on April 26, the Gaza activist flotilla still cannot sail to the Palestinian coastal territory, although a smaller ship launched from Norway and arrived in Germany on May 13.The FFC is seeking another state flag after Guinea Bissau International Ships Registry requested an inspection and revoked its flag from the lead ship, Akdenez, and the flotilla’s cargo ship.The loss of the state flag for two of the three flotilla vessels was orchestrated by Israel, the organization claimed.
Gaza aid flotilla challenges Israel
"Israel cannot and will not crush our resolve to break its illegal siege and reach the people of Gaza," said the FFC in a press conference on April 27.
The FFC called on activists to demand that a nation-state reflag their craft because they are unable to sail without the flags, which determine a vessel’s legal jurisdiction and registration. Mandla Mandela called on the South African government to allow the flotilla to fly its flag on May 6 after South African president Cyril Ramaphosa said that he supported the flotilla.
The flotilla reportedly has 5,000 tons of aid materials, but organizers say they will not allow Israel to inspect the ship.