09/11/2023
Travelling aboard the ‘Peace Boat’, peace activists from around the world have arrived at Port Said , On Wednesday (Nov.09), advocating for an urgent ceasefire in Gaza.
Passengers aboard the “Peace Boat”, a 77,000-ton cruise ship owned by the Japan-based luxury cruise operator and NGO Peace Boat, are urgently calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. The ship, also known as “Pacific World”, recently docked in Port Said, Egypt, with a powerful display of a giant banner that reads ‘Stop Killing Gaza’. The activists, echoing chants like “Free Gaza” and “Save Gaza”.emphasise their stance against the ongoing conflict.
According to Peace Boat staff member Anna Gotten, the mission is to highlight the violation of international law in Gaza and express solidarity with the affected people, especially the children. The dire situation in Gaza is emphasised, where thousands of Palestinians are fleeing south from Gaza City, facing challenges of survival with essential supplies cut off.
The Israeli military response, involving airstrikes and a ground offensive, has led to over 10,300 Palestinian casualties, with a significant proportion being women and minors. The situation is exacerbated by the destruction of infrastructure, including hospitals, refugee camps, mosques, churches, and UN facilities, as reported by the United Nations Secretary-General.
The ‘Peace Boat’ previously visited Turkey and Greece, reiterating the call for a ceasefire, and has now made its final stop in Port Said, Egypt. Despite public pressure for humanitarian pauses in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has ruled out a widespread ceasefire, leaving the region in a precarious state. The advocacy of the ship continues as it strives for peace amid the ongoing conflict.
By Sara Hamrani