Activists say Gaza aid flotilla has been halted after the ship's flag was removed

The humanitarian aid convoy is at the following destinations: Gaza Activist group Freedom Flottra Coalition announced on Saturday that the suspension was due to Guinea-Bissau's decision to remove the national flag from two ships.

“In an overtly political move, the Guinea-Bissau International Ship Registry (GBISR) has notified the Free Fleet Federation that it has removed the Guinea-Bissau flag from two Free Fleet Federation vessels, one of which is a cargo ship from our country. ' said the activists. Said.

The three-ship convoy is scheduled to leave a Turkish port on Friday with more than 5,000 tons of aid, activists said, calling the inspection and request by Guinea-Bissau authorities unusual and political.

GBISR could not be reached for comment.

The Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) is the main organizer of the Civilian Freedom Platoon coalition, which is made up of lawyers, doctors, nurses and other human rights defenders who have come together to deliver direct aid to Gaza.

At least 34,388 people had died in the Gaza Strip as of Saturday, according to the enclave's health authorities.Israel is fighting back October 7 Hamas attack More than 1,200 people were killed in the attack and at least 250 were taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies.

On Friday, UN experts demanded safe passage for the convoy and called on Israel to comply with international law and the orders of the International Court of Justice and allow unhindered access to humanitarian aid.

“Without a flag, we cannot sail. But this is not the end. Israel cannot and will not break our resolve to break the illegal siege and reach out to the people of Gaza.” activists said.