On a vessel bound for the Gaza Strip, Palestine, Ibrahim Shaaz, a Maldivian activist and Secretary General of the International Aid Campaign, is risking interception by Israeli forces as he joins an international flotilla carrying humanitarian supplies in defiance of Israel’s blockade.
The mission, called the Global Sumud Flotilla, is intended to break the siege and deliver relief to Gaza’s starving population. Shaaz is helping carry aid supplies gathered through the contributions of Maldivians, who have mobilised in support of the Palestinian cause.
Organisers say the flotilla was launched in response to the desperate humanitarian emergency unfolding in Gaza. Palestinians are pleading for assistance to alleviate starvation and to seek safety from the cruel and inhumane attacks by the Israeli occupational forces, as well as the genocide carried out by the Israeli army. The organisers contend that the international community has failed to act, leaving governments and aid agencies unable to reach those most in need.
The flotilla departed from Gammarth Port in Tunis, Tunisia, on a journey marked by considerable danger. In a video message recorded aboard his vessel, Shaaz described the mission as "extremely sensitive". He said participants faced two stark possibilities: interception in what he called a dangerous attack by Israeli forces, or the chance of evading Israeli radar and reaching Gaza.
There is precedent for confrontation. Israeli forces have previously boarded similar aid vessels and detained activists attempting to breach the blockade.
Shaaz said he joined the mission to ensure that aid donated by Maldivians is delivered with integrity to its intended recipients in Palestine. At the time of reporting, the flotilla was said to be approaching Gaza without incident, though the outcome remained uncertain. Even Shaaz himself acknowledged that he did not know what the coming hours would bring.
The mission has drawn significant attention in the Maldives, where support for the Palestinian cause runs deep. Maldivians have long engaged in activism on behalf of Palestinians, including fundraising campaigns to provide food and financial assistance. This solidarity reflects the enduring compassion of Maldivians for the helpless people of Palestine.
Throughout the voyage, Shaaz has been posting daily video updates on social media, which have prompted an outpouring of public support. His posts are flooded with messages of gratitude and praise for his courage. Across the Maldives, many are waiting anxiously for confirmation of his safe arrival and the successful delivery of aid to Gaza.