New Freedom Flotilla Ship ‘Handala’ Bound For Gaza Faces Technical Issues

Technical Problems have delayed the departure of the new Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship, Handala, from the Italian Port of Gallipoli to Gaza until July 20, 2025, per reports.

The ship is named after an iconic cartoon created by Naji al Ali, symbolising the resistance of the Palestinian People.

Among the activists onboard Handala will be 70-year-old Vigdis Bjorvand from Norway, who has been standing up and campaigning for the rights of Palestinians since 1978.

In a post on X, the organisers mentioned that she does not want her grandson to say that she did nothing. ‘Keep Vigdis and Handala safe. Help end Israel’s illegal blockade and genocide.’

Ema Fauro, a European Parliamentarian, will also be onboard the ship, along with Gabrielle Cathala and 16 humanitarian activists. They said that they rely on the support of the people to protect their ship and denounce the genocide.

The flotilla said that the ship carries the spirit of Handala and the spirit of every Palestinian child deprived of basic human rights, safety, dignity and happiness.

Throughout 2023 and 2024, Handala went to several north European ports and the U.K to break the media silence on the situation in Gaza and to engage with the locals and build solidarity for th cause through events, political discussions and exhibitions.

Handala is the second ship being sent by the coalition to end the blockade of Israel. The first ship, Madelene, was intercepted by Israel before it could reach the enclave. Troops detained all 12 activists and deported them.

Freedom Flotilla has said that this is not an ordinary voyage, but rather an act of resistance, hope and solidarity. As they prepare to sail, they are determined to break Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza.

They added that they were aware of all the risks, but the people of Gaza cannot wait. They said that they carry the voices of the Palestinian children and the voices of those demanding justice.

Source: Maritime Shipping News