ACTIVISTS taking part in the historic flotilla sailing to Gaza have issued a fresh plea for protection.
It comes after the Labour Government refused to offer protection to the UK civilians taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla.
The flotilla has begun making its way towards the besieged enclave to deliver much-needed humanitarian aid.
It is the largest humanitarian mission of its kind, with dozens of activists from 44 different countries taking part – including a delegation from the UK.
The National previously told how UK volunteers urged the Labour Government to "support" and "protect" them in the event their vessels are seized by the Israeli military, as has happened with the two previous flotilla missions.
Despite this, Keir Starmer said on Wednesday that his Government would not be offering any protection to the UK civilians taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla.
His position was reiterated by the Foreign Office, which said: “We have been clear that delivery of aid by land routes is the only viable and sustainable means of getting aid into Gaza at the scale required."
Now, a fresh statement from volunteers across the flotilla has called upon governments once again to "stand firmly with us" and guarantee safe passage.
A spokesperson for the Global Sumud Flotilla said: "The Global Sumud Flotilla stands united in its humanitarian mission to deliver urgently needed food, water, and medical supplies to the Palestinian people enduring a catastrophic genocide, famine, and spiralling health crisis caused by Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza.
"Our coalition – representing 44 countries – comprises doctors, nurses, elected representatives, journalists, and human rights advocates committed solely to alleviating human suffering.
"We call on the international community, the United Nations, and all governments to stand firmly with us and guarantee our safe passage into Gaza. Furthermore, we invite independent observers and media to join us in documenting our voyage to ensure full transparency and accountability."
A separate statement called on governments and international bodies to guarantee an immediate human corridor and to protect those onboard the flotilla. It was signed by more than 140 elected representatives from around the world – but none of the signatories were from the UK.
The plea comes as far-right Israeli minister Ben Gvir vowed to designate the flotilla volunteers as "terrorists" and seize their boats.
The two most recent flotillas, the Madleen and the Handala, were both intercepted by Israel before they could reach Gaza, with Israeli forces detaining and eventually deporting those on board.
Both vessels were sailing under a British flag, meaning they were under UK jurisdiction – yet the Labour Government remained silent and refused to make any public intervention regarding either mission.
The Scottish Greens called Labour's silence a "disgrace", as they said the Prime Minister has "a moral and legal obligation to do everything he can to stand up to this genocidal regime".
“These were vessels carrying baby formula, diapers and medical supplies.
“Keir Starmer has a moral and legal obligation to do everything he can to stand up to this genocidal regime, including giving his full backing to attempts to deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.
“Failure to do so will shame our country for generations.”
Harvie went on to say that "the bravery shown by those aboard these vessels can't be overstated".
He added: “They’re sailing towards a regime that’s willing to target civilians, including aid workers and journalists, and putting themselves on the line to try and save lives.
"The UK participants are owed protection from their Government.”
In the latest update from the UK delegation, spokesperson James Hickey said "spirits were high" among the team.
"We prepare for the worst, but we hope for the best," he told The National.
