The International Freedom Flotilla, formed by numerous international civil society organizations including IHH, is preparing to sail for Gaza. The goal of the Freedom Flotilla is to break the Israeli Siege and increase global awareness and sensitivity towards Palestine.

"We realized that we had no choice but to set sail to the Mediterranean"

Av. Bülent Yıldırım, the President of IHH, made statements during the inspections of the two purchased ships for the flotilla. Yıldırım said, "We witnessed scenes in Gaza that none of us wanted to see. We felt how helpless the world is to the core. Something needed to be done. That's why we made the decision. We had intense consultations. We met with many well-intentioned people around the world. We realized that we had no choice but set sail to the Mediterranean with the components of the Freedom Flotilla, and we took action to acquire ships."

The names of the ships are Anadolu and Vicdan (Conscience).

Yıldırım stated that they have purchased two ships so far and are continuing preparations to purchase more ships. He said, “This cargo ship has a capacity of 5,500 tons, and its name is Anadolu. It will carry our country's aid and compassion to Gaza. The name of our other ship is Vicdan (Conscience). It is a passenger ship. Hopefully, more ships will be added. This ship will accommodate conscientious activists, and it will deliver the conscience of the world to the shores of Gaza. The plight of Gaza will be conveyed to the whole world in a way that mobilizes everyone in the Mediterranean, and all people will be on the streets. Everyone will put pressure on their leaders. The flow of weapons to Israel will be stopped, trade with Israel will be halted, and Israel will be put under blockade."

"Join us to send the Gaza"

Yıldırım said, "We will demonstrate that we are not helpless" and concluded his words as follows: "We expect financial and moral support from all of you for the acquisition of more of these ships. The more ships there are, the more people will board those ships. Make an effort, have your share as well. Reach Gaza yourselves. Either with your financial donations, your prayers, or by joining us in the squares. I truly believe that our movement will contribute to a ceasefire and the delivery of aid to Gazan people."