The Madleen crew was kidnapped by the Israeli army for carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, Sea Watch pointed out.

On Monday, several European humanitarian organizations urged the immediate release of the crew members and activists aboard the Madleen, a Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) ship en route to Gaza with humanitarian aid.

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“The Freedom Flotilla’s Madleen sailboat was boarded last night by Israeli forces. The activists on board were arrested and taken to the port of Ashdod. The operation took place in international waters, in flagrant violation of the law of the sea,” stated Mediterranea Saving Humans.

“We demand the immediate release of all crew members of the Madleen and an end to the blockade of humanitarian aid for the civilian population of Gaza. Enough of the horror, violence, arrogance, and impunity of the Netanyahu government,” it added.

“Our complete solidarity with the crew of the Madleen Freedom Flotilla, attacked and kidnapped by the Israeli army for carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. European governments must work for their release. It is unacceptable that only bombs enter Gaza,” Sea Watch Italy posted on social media.

“We demand the immediate release of the crew. Sailing towards justice is not a crime!” said the Spanish NGO Aita Mari.

Earlier, early Monday morning, the Freedom Flotilla denounced that the crew of its ship were kidnapped by Israeli forces. “SOS! The Madleen volunteers were kidnapped by Israeli forces. Put pressure on your foreign ministries and help us keep them safe!” FFC posted on social media with images of each of the activists who make up the ship’s crew.

The Madleen, a British-flagged ship, set sail from Sicily, Italy, seven days ago for Gaza to “deliver humanitarian aid, break the Israeli blockade, and highlight the ongoing suffering in the Palestinian enclave.”

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

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