Yesterday two boats left Spain for Gaza, but Amal-hope had to turn back and go back to Barcelona for repairs.  

The Women’s Boat to Gaza is attempting to find a replacement boat. A crowdfunding campaign has been initiated to raise the additional funds that this requires.

Meanwhile Zaytouna continues its journey to Gaza today. The women are aiming to break a nearly decade-long Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip. Follow their progress on Facebook or on their website

In 2015, the last time the Women’s Boat to Gaza attempted to deliver aid to the territory, the Israeli navy boarded and took over its vessel, Marianne. The boat was then taken to the Israeli city of Ashdod.

In 2010, a similar bid to break the blockade by a Turkish flotilla resulted in the killing of 10 activists by Israeli commandos, and caused a diplomatic row between Ankara and Tel Aviv.

We need to make sure that we keep watching and ensure that the women are safe.