We the undersigned, are aware of the imminent threat of interception by Israel of the Women\u2019s Boat to Gaza \u2013 a group of women who are sailing in an attempt to break the illegal Israeli blockade on the Palestinian Gaza Strip.<\/p>\n
From past Israeli interceptions the possibility of a violent military attack as was experienced by the Mavi Marmara flotilla in 2010 is a reality.<\/p>\n
It is deplorable that despite the loss of lives resulting from Israel\u2019s unlawful piracy in international waters, the Israeli regime has once again threatened to repeat its criminal conduct. By the same token, it is inexcusable that the United Nations and its Security Council have failed to warn Israel not to proceed with its threat to attack the WBG.<\/p>\n
We as signatories are deeply concerned that these peaceful women activists on board the Zaytouna and their non-violent mission to break the illegal Israeli blockade, face such an unprovoked and unwarranted threat. The WBG is a solidarity mission to occupied Gaza and has no intention of entering Israel illegally.<\/p>\n
We find it unacceptable that despite these public threats by Israel, and notwithstanding the fact that one of the volunteers on board is a South African citizen, Leigh-Ann Naidoo former Olympian and activist, the Department of International Relations (DIRCO) remains silent.<\/p>\n
We therefore call on the SA Presidency to urgently take steps to ensure the safety of all the women on this mission including Leigh-Ann Naidoo. It is imperative for the SA government to provide the necessary protection for its citizen.<\/p>\n
The WBG is an admirable effort by brave women from various countries to set sail across the Mediterranean to Gaza, in a peaceful attempt to break Israel\u2019s illegal blockade.<\/p>\n
This humanitarian mission is in danger of being attacked, unless the international community, including the ANC-led government, steps in to prevent Israel from carrying out such crimes against humanity, crimes which it frequently commits with complete impunity.<\/p>\n
Women\u2019s Boat to Gaza South Africa<\/a>
\nPalestine Solidarity Alliance<\/a>
\nPalestine Solidarity Campaign<\/a>
\nBDS South Africa<\/a>
\nSouth African Jews for a Free Palestine \u2013 SAJFP<\/a>
\nNational Coalition 4 Palestine #NC4P<\/a>
\nMedia Review Network \u2013 South Africa<\/a>
\nUniversity of Johannesburg Palestine Solidarity Forum \u2013 UJ PSF<\/a>
\nPalestine Solidarity Alliance Youth League
\nMSA Union<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"