Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni has expressed strong solidarity with members of the Global Sumud Flotilla after Israel reportedly intercepted several vessels in international waters. He accused the Israeli government of violating international law and detaining activists, including Catalans.
"We are following the situation minute by minute," Mayor Collboni stated. "We are very concerned about the situation of those detained." He further condemned the Israeli Army for using force to hold activists. This action, he said, prevents the opening of a humanitarian corridor for aid into the Gaza Strip. Collboni lamented that this incident "repeats too often."
Mayor Condemns International Law Violations
The Mayor of Barcelona directly accused the government of Benjamin Netanyahu of violating international law. He highlighted the use of force against activists. These activists were trying to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip. The interception occurred in international waters, according to the flotilla organisers. This raises questions about maritime law and humanitarian access.
The Global Sumud Flotilla aims to deliver critical humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Its mission is to bypass blockades and provide direct aid. The incident involved the detention of several individuals. Among those detained are Catalan citizens, adding a local dimension to the international event.
Local Protest in Plaça de Sants
In response to the interception and detentions, organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla have called for protests. These demonstrations will take place this Thursday at various city councils. In Barcelona, a public protest is scheduled for 19:00 in Plaça de Sants, a busy square in the Sants-Montjuïc district. This district is home to over 180,000 residents.
The protest seeks to show solidarity with the activists aboard the flotilla. It also demands the immediate release of those currently detained. Barcelona residents are encouraged to attend and support the call for humanitarian access to Gaza. The city's stance reflects a broader concern for human rights and international legal principles.
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Originally published by betevé. Read original article.