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Eyewitness Kevin Ovenden from the Freedom Flotilla: 'I saw people shot'  Kevin Ovenden, a representative of Viva Palestina , was on the main ship of the Freedom Flotilla when Israeli soldiers descended onto the deck – he spoke from Turkey to Siân Ruddick “We knew the Israelis were going to attack, or intercept us in some way. At 11pm we had the first contact. A visual warning was that two Israeli warships were approaching us, followed by a third. “We were 90 miles north of the Israeli coast, and 22 miles away from the buffer zone that Israel has set from its shores.
The real story from Mavi Marmara: They were shooting to kill from the Morning Star Speaking to the Star from Istanbul shortly after his release from an Israeli jail British campaigner Kevin Ovenden, who was aboard the Mavi Marmara - the boat that bore the brunt of a terrifying raid by gun-toting Israeli commandos - described the attack as a "murderous assault" and "an act of political terrorism." READ MORE HERE
Sarah Colborne from Palestine Solidarity Campaign gives eyewitness account of Mavi Marmara massacre
"There are images from Monday's bloody attack that will haunt me for the rest of my life. "Yet for all the horrors of the last few days, for all the deaths and injuries, there is one thing that helped me through - knowing that back here in London PSC would be vociferously campaigning on behalf of all the hostages illegally held by the Israeli's. "I will be writing tomorrow at greater length about my experiences, but I wanted every PSC member and supporter to know that your outstanding campaign over the last week is appreciated and I hope to see as many of you as can make it to the demo in central London on Saturday."
3rd June 2010 "This is the Sharpeville and the Soweto of the movement for palestinian solidarity. "People of those countries around the world must now tell their governments that we are not prepared to continue to allow Israel to flout international law. The inhuman siege of Gaza must end now! "The Israeli government has used terror for political ends. But we are not afraid. "We who survived the Mavi Marmara massacre will redouble our efforts to bring humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine and end this siege!" Kevin confirms that he, Nicola Enchmarch and Nader Daher are all safe and well.
Hassan Ghani speaks to Press TV (#1) Hassan Ghani speaks to Press TV (#2)
Download a flyer in pdf format here
Viva Palestina founder George Galloway released the following statement on 31st May 2010 in response to the Mavi Marmara massacre: "It unmasks Israel which no-one can now consider a member of the 'international community' but is rather a rogue state, a pariah state. "The embargo and blockade of Gaza must be brought to an end. This has been underwritten by the United States, by Britain and the European Union, but this has got to end now."
Manchester marches in solidarity with Flotilla heroes
London demonstration against Mavi Marmara massacre
More video of the London protest speeches can be found here: Thank you to Counterfire
URGENT ACTION NEEDED: ISRAELI TROOPS STORM GAZA FLOTILLA AND KILL 9: DEMONSTRATE TODAY
Members of the Israeli Navy commandeered the largest ship of the Gaza Flotilla and in the process kill a reported 19 activists. On board the ship are international human rights activists from a number of countries including 28 from the UK. News reports can be found on the BBC Sky NEWS, PRESS TV, The Guardian, Al Jazeera What can you do: 1) Protest against Israel's actions, to support the flotilla and to demand action from our government
Israeli forces have attacked the international aid convoy Freedom Flotilla en route to the besieged Gaza Strip, killing a a reported 9 people and leaving more than 50 injured.
KEVIN OVENDEN REPORT'S LIVE FROM THE GAZA FLOTILLA! The Israeli media is reporting that Israel will deploy a very large naval force. Far from minimising violence, this is an illegal aggressive move which will make it more likely. We are broadcasting live from the ship. Calm and organisation overcome the fear that Israel is trying to instill. Viva Palestina and all aboard are prepared. We are calling on everyone to contact various political leaders to ask them to do everything in their power to ensure the safety of these brave people, and to stand up and add their voice in support of this humanitarian flotilla.
Speaking from Miami Florida, where he is in the middle of a twelve city speaking tour of the US on Palestine, Galloway hailed the Turkish humanitarian organisation IHH which has organised and leads the flotilla as "heroes" who are facing the hardships of the seas and the threats of violence from Gaza's besiegers the Apartheid state of Israel. Galloway called on all people and governments of goodwill to insist on safe passage for the hundreds of humanitarians on board the ships and the unmolested delivery of the vital aid supplies on board. Promising on behalf of Viva Palestina Arabia a second sea convoy later in the year - again in partnership with IHH - Galloway thanked the government of Turkey and its incomparable prime minister Erdogan for showing the world the way to peacefully confront the international crime being committed against the people of Palestine.
News from the flotilla
Kevin Ovenden reports for Viva Palestina from the Freedom Flotilla 29th May 2010
Press TV report Noam Chomsky and Gerry Adams show support for Gaza flotilla CLICK HERE
On the 25th July the first session of the annual 'Summer University of Palestine' is due to begin in Lebanon. This event is organised by the registered Lebanese charity Viva Palestina Arabia and will focus on Palestine. The week long intensive course will cover 'Past, Present and Future Palestine' on the history, geography and politics of the region. A-list renowned world-class speakers such as: George Galloway, Ghada Karmi, Norman Finkelstein, Abdul Rahim Mourad, Dr Ali Fayad, Ziad Hafez, Reem Nimer, Vangelis Pissias, Dr Daud Abdullah ,Ma'un Bashour, Yvonne Ridley,Ramzy Baroud,Gabi Baramki, and Dr Azzam Tamimi amongst other leading speakers will be there! Will you? In addition to this residential educational event there will be visits to Palestinian refugee camps and we will also take you to view Baalbek, city of the sun and Fatima's gate. This unforgettable experience is priced at $850 USD for 7 days/6 nights. This includes accommodation at the magnificent Lebanese International University, transfers, excursions, a full university syllabus and meals on the campus. You will also receive the official Viva Palestina Arabia T-shirt designed by Philosophy Football . Spaces are limited! Register here to secure your place www.vivapalestinaarabia.org - Help us raise awareness of the siege of Gaza and also buy humanitarian aid to rebuild lives. Make a donation here: http://www.vivapalestinaarabia.org/en/donate
Viva Palestina Arabia is here - click below
Return to Gaza
Viva Palestina Convoy Celebration Day Tuesday 23 February 2010 - 7pm - 9pm The Program will include: Venue: The Conway Hall 25 Red Lion Square, Holborn, London, WC1R 4RL Nearest tube station is Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines) approx 3 min walk. Also within reasonable walking distance are Chancery Lane and Russell Square. Organisers : Palestinian Forum of Britain (PFB) ALL WELCOME Convoy members - request for your impressions As part of the Viva Palestina Convoy Celebration Day on the 23rd of February an independent production team is putting together a short film which includes convoy members talking about their 'impressions' of the convoy and a montage of photographs taken by those on the convoy.
Sustaining Palestine with Aid and Fair Trade 'Fair Trade' products will be on sale including Palestinian Olives and Dates from 'Zaytoun'
News Update - 5th February 2010 Events have been moving fast since the convoy's return from Gaza. In addition to the good news that the two convoy members who stayed behind in Gaza are now safely back following intensive efforts to secure their return, here are a couple of further updates. Viva Palestina US held two very successful meetings in New York and in Boston last weekend, raising around $60,000. In addition, the American Friends of Palestine held a fundraising in New Jersey which raised over $100,000. It is particularly signficant that despite attempts in the US to whip up hostility against solidarity with the Palestinians and against Viva Palestina, on account of its high profile, that these events were packed out. There was great enthusiasm for two upcoming initiatives. Viva Palestina on the High Seas Vehicles left in Egypt by convoy taken to Syria by IHH
The 43 vehicles that Egypt had not allowed to be taken into Gaza along with the rest of the Viva Palestina convoy have been shipped to Syria by the IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation. They will then be donated to Palestinian refugee camps in Syria and Lebanon. The vehicles were left at Arish port, as agreed with Egyptian authorities, to defuse a crisis over the vehicles. Egypt had blocked their entry into Gaza through its territory without providing any reasonable explanation. The other 153 vehicles were successfully taken to Gaza. The 43 vehicles were loaded onto ships by IHH officials to be taken to Palestinian refugee camps in Syria and Lebanon. The IHH, which managed to break the embargo as joint sponsors of the convoy, has launched preparations for another convoy. The foundation is planning to reach Gaza directly via sea in March 2010. Aid materials will be delivered to Gaza in five ships. Ppeople can donate vehicles, medical equipment and cash to be taken to Gaza alongside the planned marine convoy. Viva Palestina will be joining the IHH every nautical mile of the way.
Congratulations
Protests outside Egyptian embassy in Kuala Lumpur From Ireland to Gaza
A message from Kevin Ovenden - Viva Palestina convoy leader "The level of support internationally for this mission has been tremendous. We`ve been understandably in a bit of a bubble - especially when we were barricaded in at the port of Al Arish. But we´ve got some sense of the scale of solidarity events and of media coverage. "The sight of people lining the streets virtually the full length of the Gaza Strip, after waiting for 10 hours for our last vehicles to pass (thanks to further Egyptian delays) was the only vindication of that this initiative ever required. "This was an incredibly diverse group of 518 people. Now we aim to build on that across the UK and internationally. "Thanks to everyone who responded to the calls to action from the VP office. There are thousands of emails to respond to and we will do as soon as we can. We are now working on further plans for coordinated initiatives over the next 12 months, which will be announced shortly. "
A Poem for the Viva Palestina convoy Dedicated to all those who took part in the convoy and those who supported it around the world.
Filistin Konvoyu'na görkemli karsilama
VIVA! VIVA! PALESTINA!
Congratulations 11.00am GMT: Thursday 7th January
In interview with Press TV George Galloway promises that in future, "You'll see Viva Palestina coming from all corners of the world."
"We are all emotional to see that all of Gaza are out to greet us! Our Viva Palestina convoy is symbolic! It shows the Palestianian people just how much the people of the West do care.
Al-Jazerra reports below Press TV reports below
Short but oh so sweet! - Headlines from Al-Jazeera
“It is shocking that the Egyptian government is behaving in this way. There can be no justification for preventing this aid and the people who have worked so hard to provide it from reaching Gaza . The Palestinians are waiting for this well publicised international convoy to arrive and these actions of the Egyptian government, and the building of Egypt's steel wall signal that Egypt is colluding with the Israeli government's illegal siege of Gaza.” Press TV analysis ands interview with Betty Hunter below
Part Two here
Latest Radio Islam Interview with Kevin Ovenden Press TV - 11.00 GMT
Viva Palestina: More Than 10 Injured, Seven Arrested EL-ARISH PORT, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- More than 10 members of the Viva Palestina convoy were injured, four of them seriously, and seven members arrested by Egyptian police during a protest here Tuesday at 11.40pm local time. GAZA ACTIVISTS IN EGYPT PASSPORT PROTEST SKY NEWS REPORT HERE
Crisis in Egypt Viva Palestina faced with 2,000 riot police in the port of Al-Arish! To all friends of Palestine, Contact details including email addresses and phone numbers of Egyptian Embassies and consulates can be found here Up to the minute reports from the convoy can be found by CLICKING HERE. Images from Al-Arish
Convoy Update VIVA PALESTINA WIN AIRPORT BATTLE! Gaza activists in passport protest Read Eric Ruder "Viva Palestina mission to Gaza"
Read Press Association story here
Please Support our Emergency Appeal So we are asking our friends and supporters to dig deep in their pockets and make an emergency donation towards the costs now facing the convoy including chartering the ULUSOY-6 to tansport the vehicles and four or five flights to move the convoy members.
With your help we will once more deliver aid to the people of Gaza - and once more demand the end to this inhuman siege. Thanks you for your support and may we wish everyone a Happy New Year. Viva Palestina and friends Thank you to the many supporters from more than twenty countries who have already donated online. Your generosity and support is wonderful. Message from Noam Chomsky to the Convoy members
ULUSOY-6 loading up in Lattakia
Press TV report - 3rd January
Viva Palestina Convoy To Use Tartus Port To Get To Gaza
DAMASCUS, December 30th 2009 (Bernama)
Back in Damascus - Next stop Tartus
Viva Palestina rebuts Egyptian 'bungle' allegations
Gaza aid convoy to head for Syria after Egypt talks failed 29th December 2009
"World powers have failed and betrayed Gaza's ordinary citizens"
Viva Palestina Convoy in Turkey, Syria & Jordan
Viva Palestina in Jordan - alSabeel Daily Issue no. 1093 Friday 8th alMuharram 1431 – 25 December 2009
(shown in the picture: right to left : MP George Galloway wearing the red Jordanian Armed forces Kufiyyah, Zahir alBirawi Lifeline spokesperson, Ali AbulSukkar, Jordanian MP, Barrister, Engineer). High resversion here
28/12/2009 The agreement came after a Turkish mediator reached a deal with the Egyptian consul in Jordan's Red Sea port of Aqaba. The convoy will now head to the Syrian port of Latakia to sail from there to the Egyptian port of El Arish, and then to Gaza.
BBC news report
"Israel has kept Gaza under siege for three-and-half years against international law. It has not allowed aid or rebuilding materials in following its attack on Gaza earlier this year. Our convoy is determined to break the siege and take in urgently needed supplies Spirits are high in our camp in Aqaba, and we are going nowhere except to Gaza." Why the convoy must be allowed to proceed - George Galloway talks to Al-Jazeera CLICK HERE Derry men stranded on mercy mission - Report in the Derry Journal CLICK HERE
Protests after prayers in Aqaba against the Egyptian refusal to allow the Viva Palestina convoy entry across the Red Sea.
Humanitarian appeal from Malaysia
An Appeal To The Egyptian Government I have been informed that the International Humanitarian Aid convoy under Viva Palestina has yet to get approval from the Egyptian authorities to enter Gaza via the Rafa crossing. This convoy is made up of volunteers from several nations who are personally bringing ambulances and trucks bearing medical supplies, baby food and clothing for the people of Gaza. The Perdana Global Peace Organisation has purchased 4 trucks and an ambulance and has sent its team on this convoy bearing the much needed aid for the Gazans.
Friends of Viva Palestina in Manchester will be saddened to hear of the death of Phil Kaiserman. In February Phil joined friends of Viva Palestina to send off the first convoy to Gaza - which in tribute to a life dedicated to campaigning and human solidarity - bore his own name. The Phil Kaiserman Column, led by our iconic red fire engine was a celebration of the radical Jewish tradition Phil represented for so many decades.
After a Jewish childhood in Manchester's Cheetham Hill between the wars, Phil Kaiserman went on to join the Young Communist League and raised money for the Spanish Republican cause during the Civil War. It was the active solidarity of working people during the Spanish Civil war - the movement which became known as Aidez Espagna - which was George Galloway's inspiration for the Viva Palestina convoy to another besieged people over 70 years later. We would like to pass on our deepest sympathies to his daughter Linda at this difficult time. International Aid Convoy Members on Hunger Strike 27th December 2009 Diplomatic negotiations are also taking place between the Turkish and Egyptian governments over the convoy's entry to Egypt. IHH, Turkey's main humanitarian aid agency, has 63 vehicles travelling on the convoy.
Spirits remain high in the Viva Palestina camp at Aqaba
Another day in Aqaba
Sunday 27 December, From the PSC blog The compound where our convoy members gather during the day, here in Aqaba, is full of activity. In exactly an hour, more than 30 of us will begin a hunger strike in protest at Egypt's refusal to allow the convoy entry onto its soil.
In the News Follow more news stories on our media page
Stranded but not giving up
On the BBC Spencer Evans at BBC Gloucester airs the news of the convoy through the airwaves at the BBC CLICK HERE
Letter to the Ambassadors The following letter was sent to the Ambassadors of the many countries whose citizens are currently waiting with the convoy in Aqaba. • Your Excellency
Stranded in Aqaba
26th December 2009 Well folks, as you awake today from your Christmas hangover, over 500 people from 20 countries, in 250 vehicles loaded with Humanitarian Aid, are left stranded in Aqaba, Jordan, having been refused permission to enter Egypt. From Ireland, 10 volunteers in 2 ambulances, a van, and a truck loaded with Humanitarian Aid are part of this convoy. The convoy is organised by "Viva Palestina", a charity founded by George Galloway, MP.
25th December 2009 The Egyptian government has denied entry to the Viva Palestina Aid Convoy carrying medical and humanitarian aid to Gaza. Hundreds of tonnes of aid, including specialised medical equipment and powdered milk for babies, is now stockpiled in the Jordanian port town of Aqaba waiting for permission to enter Egypt via the Straits of Aqaba. The international convoy of approximately 150 vehicles and more than 400 people from 17 countries was given the news by the Egyptian Consulate in Aqaba late on Christmas Eve. British MP George Galloway, who is travelling with the convoy, said “We feel very sad that Egypt has turned us away on Christmas Day, but we hope they will reconsider. This is a very determined convoy and we're not going anywhere except to Gaza.” The convoy, jointly organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign in the UK, left London on 6th December. It has enjoyed safe passage through Europe, Turkey, Syria and Jordan on its way to Gaza. It hopes to enter Gaza and break Israel's three and a half year illegal blockade of the Strip via the Rafah border crossing with Egypt on 27th December. The date marks the first anniversary of the beginning of Israel's three week land, air and sea assault on Gaza, which killed more than 1400 Palestinians. Find out more and what you can do to help at Reading PSC
Galloway to Cairo: Open the gates British Lawmaker George Galloway has appealed to Cairo to allow the Viva Palestina humanitarian aid convoy he is accompanying to enter the blockaded Gaza Strip.
Letter in The Guardian 24/12/2009 Janice Gupta Gwilliam, Norton, North Yorkshire
A big thank you from Viva Palestina to the Malaysian Perdana Global Peace Organisation. From half way across the world thay have raised the Viva Palestina banner just as high and as proudly as those closer to Palestine. Members of Perdana travelling on the convoy were joined this week by a film crew from Malaysian Bernama TV (BBC please note - THIS IS A NEWS STORY!) in Damascus for the final leg of the convoy's journey to Gaza.
Irish Humanitarian Delegation Travelling To Gaza On December 27 th , the st anniversary of the attacks on Gaza, a Humanitarian Delegation from Ireland will attempt to cross through the Rafah Border and deliver humanitarian aid to the stricken region.
"It gives us the strength to carry on." It's been a whirlwind four days, with an exit from Turkey, a drive through Syria and a five hour border crossing into Jordan.
Leading Syrian Newspaper Baladna
Convoy in Jordan to Grand Welcome
Gaza-bound convoy enters Jordan Mafraq, Dec 22 (Petra) -- An aid convoy with over 220 vehicles and 450 figures from the United States and European countries on Tuesday crossed into Jordan from Syria en route to the Israeli-blockaded Gaza Strip.
Fantastic coverage from Reading PSC on the link below
and the national Palestine Solidarity Campaign blog here
Viva Palestina aid convoy to Gaza received Syrian boost.
Convoy stories - Palestine at heart 22/12/2009
21st December 2009
Viva (la) Palestina (Revolución) Excellent article by Richard Hall for Beruit Daily Star
Return to Gaza International solidarity with besieged Gaza is gaining momentum despite a Western media blackout. Amira Howeidy reports for the Egyptian weekly Al-Ahram on the progress of the Viva Palestina aid convoy as it crosses Europe
“The reception we've had from ordinary Turkish people, from its government, and from the IHH has been absolutely phenomenal. Their support and enthusiasm has boosted the morale of the convoy immeasurably, and their obvious support and love for the people of Gaza has been an inspiration to us. We can't thank Turkey enough.”
Two successful convoys spur flood of humanitarian assistance!
Convoy Arrives in Konya and Adana
Our reception in Turkey is truly an unforgettable one! 100's of people arrive to greet us at the border!! Turkish National TV is reporting live coverage as the convoy moves through their towns… Our Turkish friends cheer us on with Filstine Yolacik !!! (which means, a lifeline from Turkey to Gaza). Viva Turkya!! Thanks to the IHH for all their wonderful support for Viva Palestina in Turkey
See more wonderful pictures of convoy in Turkey here
Crowds out to welcome convoy to Turkey Breaking down the Barriers On the media front, the mainstream in Britain may be ignoring us, but, one way and another, we are being heard all the same. I've never had much time for all the ‘broadcast your life' social networking stuff before, but, on a mission like this, it has really come into its own. A whole network of Twitterers, bloggers and Facebook users are pushing the message out far and wide. And every little plug really does make a difference.
Twittering from the Convoy
Day 8
ML SULAIMAN RAVAT OF RADIO ISLAM , SOUTH AFRICA , WITH CONVOY LEADER KEVIN OVENDEN - CLICK HERE
FFantastic coverage from Reading PSC on the link below
and the national Palestine Solidarity Campaign blog here Twittering from the Convoy
Day 7 Day 6 Day 5
Day 4
Day 1 A World Prayer for Gaza Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Invitation to share in a prayer for Gaza Strip Lord, hear us.
Cork to Gaza (High Res image here) Website here
Students join convoy to break the siege on Gaza
Students have joined hundreds of other activists from across Britain and the world to take part in the blockade-busting Viva Palestina Convoy. The third convoy of its kind, the Viva Palestina Convoy, will be travelling for three thousand miles over the coming weeks, aiming to break the siege on Gaza on 27 th December – the one year anniversary of the start of Israel's brutal war on Gaza earlier this year. 6th December 2009
Photos of the VP launch here
SOLIDARITY CAN WIN
5th December 2009
During his recent visit to Ireland, Professor Noam Chomsky spent a day with John Hurson (picture) and spoke of his support for "Viva Palestina".
Bristol school sends postcards to Gaza Students at the City Academy School in Bristol have been writing POSTCARDS TO GAZA. On Monday 30 th November, they were handed to the convoy which will deliver them to a school in Gaza. The youngsters also donated boxes of stationery together with sacks of cuddly toys.
1st December 2009
The Bristol contingent of the Viva Palestina Convoy paraded their massive 44 ton truck around their shopping centre on Saturday. Accompanied by musicians and marchers with placards they drew attention to the plight of the people in Gaza and collected donation for their trip.
Exclusive Limited Edition Print
A year ago Philosophy Football produced a T-shirt in support of the Viva Palestina convoy. In support, of the 2009 convoy they have produced a limited edition print of their hugely popular 'They Stole My Land' design, each one numbered and signed by the Viva Palestina leader George Galloway and artist Hugh Tisdale. With 100% of profits funding the convoy, this specially produced print is limited to a run of only 100, and produced on archival materials for long-term durability.Hurry! Both the need to raise the last funds for the convoy before they depart is urgent and the print number is strictly limited. Your print will be posted, UK or airmail, in a safe and secure package. You won't regret your generosity, the cause is vital, the image you hang on your wall magnificent. Available from http://www.philosophyfootball.com/view_item.php?pid=558
Kingston raises Gaza solidarity
From York to Gaza IT GETS cold in the Taurus Mountains of Turkey in December: bitterly, bone-searchingly cold. “Temperatures can get to well below freezing,” admits Heather Stroud matter-of-factly. If you were thinking of driving through those mountains in winter on a journey of thousands of miles from the UK to Gaza, an old, decommissioned NHS ambulance is probably the last vehicle you'd choose.
Messages of Support for Convoy 3 I would like to express my full support for the Viva Palestina convoy which leaves in December. The ongoing siege of Gaza is a crime against humanity, as was the Israeli attack last year. British support for the relief efforts is a contribution to the solution of a human problem. I wish the convoy all success.
18th October 2009
Friday 16th October saw the launch of the Gloucester communities' campaign to hopefully send 2 or maybe more ambulances by road to Gaza. Campaign organisers hope that the vehicles will leave from London on December 5th 2009 with the main Viva Palestina convoy. 7 volunteers in 3 vehicles drove to Gaza in the first historic convoy earlier this year. This time, new volunteers have been recruited and are being prepared with the support of the different communities in the area. A special cake was baked by a volunteers, decorated with the flags of all the countries that the convoy will travel through. To keep up to date with the latest developments in Gloucester contact Gulam on 07816655529 or Farouk on 0777 9222570
Bristol-Gaza-Link Association launched at packed meeting
December Convoy - your questions answered. Various documents are due to be sent out over the next few days. They will include registration, vehicle and individual checklists and other necessary paperwork. The route has been finalised and we are contacting the relevant countries as a courtesy before sending that out to you next week. Best wishes,
Viva Palestina goes international After the success of the UK convoy in February and the US convoy in July, the next convoy is going to be a huge international gathering to deliver more aid to the people of Gaza. We'll be working with more organisations, taking more people from both the UK and US and more desperately needed aid to Gaza. And we want everyone to take part. Click here for full details
Viva Palestina Lifeline II enters Gaza We will bring you more details as we get them.
The Viva Palestina humanitarian convoy enters the Gaza Strip, breaking the deadly Israeli blockade imposed on 1.5 million Palestinians for a second time.
Viva Palestina US: Navigating Egypt's Obstacle Course 14th July 2009: Cairo READ MORE HERE
Viva Palestina US: Convoy Update #3 July 12, 2009, 11:45 pm Cairo The Viva Palestina members who spent the night in their buses at the Suez Crossing after being stopped by Egyptian authorities on July 11 have now rendezvoused in Cairo with British Member of Parliament George Galloway and former Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney, who has rushed to join the convoy following her deportation from Israel on Wednesday. Galloway, McKinney and the Viva Palestina leadership have been working with Egyptian and U.S. authorities to expedite the passage of the convoy over the Suez Canal and into Gaza.
Viva Palestina US: Convoy Update #2 July 12, 2009, 2:45 am Cairo
Viva Palestina USA - on it's way
Over 170 Americans and others are on their way to break the suffocating siege of Gaza! Our communities have been raising funds to buy medicines and medical supplies to take to the people of Gaza, which has been sealed off at all borders and the Mediteranean coast, mostly by Israel but with some cooperation by Egypt. After twenty-two days of Israeli bombing, this isolation is deadly: Palestinians are rarely allowed to leave to get medical care, nor are they able to import what they need.
Shake and Bake for Gaza The Gloster2Gaza team are following up their convoy visit with an idea to support a Women's Bread Making Oven in Gaza which will cost approximately £3,500. One of the simple but very popular ideas being used to raise the money is to sell fruit smoothies, shakes and home-made cakes each week at various community venues. Above is a picture of Farouk Shaikh & Abid Motara, the Shakes & Cakes team, in action outside the Friendship Cafe youth and community centre. One convoy member who happens to be a beekeeper also donated his local honey, sales of which go towards the Bread Oven Project.
THREE UNCLES GO TO GAZA
14th June 2009
from Mr Mohammed Faraj Alghool, Head of Change & Reform Bloc, Palestine Legislative Council to George Galloway MP 13th April 2009 Dear Sir We at the Change and Reform Bloc in the Palestinian Legislative Council hereby express our sincere thanks and appreciation to you for the generous efforts you pay for breaking the unjust siege imposed on our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, this siege which is contrary to the most basic moral values and human rights. While we appreciate your responsible step in launching the first land convoy which arrived to the Gaza strip, we welcome your efforts for sending more land convoys which contribute in supporting the steadfastness of the Palestinian people, especially after the brutal Zionist aggression on the Gaza Strip which occurred under suspicious international silence. The Parliamentary Reform and Change Bloc also highly appreciate your present step for sending another convoy to the Gaza Strip. Here we hope you all success and we assure you that these invaluable offers of help effectively in breaking the unjust siege on the resistant Gaza and reduce the suffering of the Palestinian people. Please accept my sincere respect and highest appreciation, Chancellor
Mohammed Faraj al-Ghoul
GAZA 100 - click logo on right for more information
8th April 2009 Fresh from the success of the Viva Palestina aid convoy which took over 100 vehicles to Gaza from Britain , George Galloway MP has linked up on his US tour with the Vietnam veteran and peace campaigner Ron Kovic to launch a similar, but bigger venture from the States. Galloway announced the initiative at a 1000-strong meeting in Anaheim , South California , rounding off a packed-out, coast to coast speaking tour highlighting the Palestinian cause. “There's a new atmosphere in the US over Palestine ,” says Galloway , “the phenomenal response to this tour demonstrates that.” Ron Kovic, whose story was immortalised in Oliver Stone's Born on the Fourth of July , will be the co-leader of the convoy, which will form up in Egypt and make its way to the Rafah crossing and into Gaza Organisers are aiming for 500 vehicles and $10 million of aid. “And what better day to head off,” says Galloway , “Than July 4 – Independence Day!” Sign up to US email alerts here (click and then scroll down to green box)
6th April 2009
Boycotting Israeli Goods - French style!
Watch George Galloway on The Hour with George Stroumboulopoulos, Canada 's award-winning late-night TV talk show, on Monday March 30th.
In Canada, a federal judge today refused an injunction to force the Canadian government to allow George Galloway to speak at a series of meetings.
IT SEEMS that the Canadian government, and the immigration ministry in particular, has gotten their Georges confused. Though how you could confuse a bumbling idiot with a Texas drawl for an erudite Scotsman with an oratory of the first degree, is hard to imagine.
Call for a an international movement to open the Rafah Border - Don't let Gaza die
Children's pictures behind the wire Rod Cox has initiated a cultural and educational exchange in Gaza which is really taking off. He has met with the Ministry of Education there – they are supporting an exchange of children's pictures between Gazan schoolchildren and schoolchildren in the U.K. There are already schools in Cheshire England ready to exchange. Health authorities in Gaza say it is really important for children's mental health that they maintain positive contact with the rest of the world and that this project will help them. The children have not only painted pictures themselves, but Rod's van is now graffittied with their efforts. 24th March 2009 The films focus on three separate cases of alleged war crimes; Three documentaries produced by Guardian Films and Clancy Chassay made during a month-long investigation add weight to calls this week for a full inquiry into the events surrounding Operation Cast Lead which left over 1400 Palestinians dead. You can watch the three films HERE
'Viva, Viva Palestina!' reverberated around the Arrivals Hall at Manchester Airport as Muzaffar Beg, the first of our heroic drivers to emerge from the immigration interrogation, came through the doors.
Dear Honourable Mr. George Galloway, I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations and gratitude for accomplishing the incredible mission of "A Lifeline from Britain to Gaza". The unprecedented determination, wisdom, perseverance, integrity, strong ethics, incredible courage that you and the team exhibited throughout this long and challenging journey, that extended across three continents, are highly appreciated and greatly valued by all of us, Palestinians and Muslims in particular,and the whole World in general. I welcome you as a Palestinian brother of mine...I think Mother Palestine is weeping today with joy not sadness, for having such a son, a hero, that along the many, many long years of suffering, refused to forget.... Refused to forget the horrifying suffering, the tremendous pain, the inhumane genocide...Her rape and torture in every way possible...And he kept on going and going...Until justice and defeat of the siege prevailed. Sir, this is not just a victory for Mother Palestine....but rather a victory for all of humanity indeed. I salute you my friend, for all what you did and continue to do for my people...We cherish you and admire you.... You are in our hearts and minds now and always. Best regards, Dalal Alhusseini Muhtadi "We palestinians are completely honoured and overwhelmed with your efforts not to mention your support . And the fact that you have been through alot on your journey here, makes us feel even more proud and more than just happy . That our voices and prayers were not lost in the air and we are heared all over the world .. and specialy that were not alone . "Viva Palestina, I am so proud of all my brothers and sisters who participated in this convoy.you are heroes. As a Palestinians living in Morocco, I appreciate all your efforts and sufferings during your long trip, your determination to help the Palestinians and to tell them that there are still honest people who understand and feel their pains.God bless you all . Go ahead. my mind and heart are with you .I wish I was with you during this party to hug all of you and to express my gratitude and respect.I had the honor and the pleasure to receive you when you pass through Rabat in your way to Gaza. Special thanks to the legend Mr. George Galloway. "Our eyes are brimming with tears of love, joy and hope. Our love and gratitude can not be expressed in words, may Allah ta ala grant you and all those who have played a part in ''VIVA PALESTINA'' ,ease in this life. May he shower his mercy and forgiveness on you all and grant you a lofty place in Jannah. Ameen" READ MORE MESSAGES HERE
George Galloway MP
Watch more videos of the departure here
Viva
Palestina Email Alert
Yet things
are never that easy. Last night, some of our team spent several
hours in the unscheduled company of scores of armed Egyptian police
at the side of the road. But the waiting, tense at first, was relieved
with the arrival of food and tea, brought by the Libyan drivers
from the convoy. More police then arrived with a van full of
plastic chairs, so at least they could all sit down as they waited
for ‘instructions'! In the end common sense prevailed and our team
joined the Libyans in their compound for the evening. Viva
Palestina Email Alert GAZA - WE WILL BE BACK SOON
He led a convoy to bring aid to the Palestinian people in Gaza. His convoy crossed mountains and the seas from the British islands to mainland Europe then crossing the western Sahara to reach the north African countries of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sinai and Gaza. Thousands of kilometres and miles, with a humanitarian, moral and an equitable political aim. George Galloway was not an Arab living next to Palestine or belonging to the Arab nation, but he was a free man belonging to free humanity, he detached himself from partisan politics, civilizations, languages and geographical differences. His stances were highly moral by excellence, he called for justice to the weak, His mission touched the hearts of the free, he did not talk the talk, he walked the walk. The majority of the remaining Viva Palestina convoy members and activists were leaving Gaza today - exactly one month after the convoy departed on its epic journey from Hyde Park in London. I could not get a word out of some of them, as they were extremely upset. The bond they have developed with the people of Gaza will undoubtedly last for many years. Viva Palestina will cross at Rafah today, not for the last time, because they will soon be back with more aid, assistance, activists and above all, with hope and messages from the people of Britain. We want Gaza to know that we have broken barriers once and WE WILL break them again. On their last day, they visited a mixed school. They sat in some of the classes, in particular, an English language lesson.
The Viva Palestina guest asked them to start a project where they will write about their history, using pictures from their country. Their work will be sent to selected British schools who are willing to explore the possibility of twinning projects with Gaza schools. Some houses destroyed by phosphorous bombs were visited today. The members recorded the scenes and saw unexploded bombs, tank shells and the remnants of the IDF's prohibited weaponry. The story of a 85 years old Palestinian attracted the attention of the team leaders and members at Beit Hanoun. He was looking fit and healthy for his age. He took them to a field, which had been his orange grove, until the Israelis dug up all his fifty years old orange trees using their bulldozers. The old man had gone back and replanted every single acre of his orange grove with olive trees. He vowed that he will keep replanting it every time the invaders destroy his grove. All the vehicles delivered are at work already. Palestinians over the years have shown the ability to adapt quickly to a new situation. A right hand drive ambulance in the streets of Gaza may be a first, but every time a child comes across one of our vehicles, they will remember Viva Palestina and the people of Britain who did not forget them. The remaining teams are heading back with heavy hearts - torn at leaving their new found friends, brothers and sisters, behind to the mercy of the IDF, their F16s and their drones. They have lived the dream of walking amongst the brave of Gaza. We will celebrate their return. We will listen to their tales, we will admire their courage and without a doubt, we will aspire to be there ourselves, next time. Prepared and translated by Farid Arada Viva
Palestina Email Alert
A
DEVASTATED COUNTRY – A NATION UNDEFEATED They split into groups and headed for the Palestinian Hydrology Group to assess the damage to the water tanks cause by the pounding of the IDF artillery. Plans were made for Viva Palestina to help in the funding of a desalination plant and freshwater wells. Money will be dispersed to funding these projects, as water is so essential to a normal life. Some members visited the Zakat Foundation in Zeitun. Here widows spoke of their plight and their desparate needs, some of whom are now living in makeshift homes in a cemetery. Amongst the other places visited by Viva Palestina were a bakery, one of the few still operating on a shoestring budget to keep the children and the sick fed. Viva Palestina activists also visited a fish farm where they witnessed the process of fish incubation, so essential as the IDF prevents Palestinian boats from fishing in their territorial waters. More orphanages have been visited today including the Islamic Association Orphanage. One of our teams spent time with Majed Adallah Alathmna. Majed lost most of his family in a 2006 Israeli assault. Attempting to re-start his life he moved to a new area to the south of Gaza only to have his house blown to pieces by the Israeli army in January. The members also inspected the Nasser and Yaffa hospitals where they spoke to badly wounded and burns patients and recorded some harrowing tales of slaughter, bravery and, equally, of resistance. Many medical clinics were on the agenda to be inspected. The whole of Gaza seems to be a hospital, as not one Palestinian was spared in the onslaught. Every soul has been affected - especially the younger generation. Yet the amazing thing a member of Viva Palestina told me was that 'Everyone manages a smile - a true genuine smile in the face of death and a barbaric siege.' On a happier note, some activists today were invited to a Palestinian engagement party and shared the celebrations of the families involved. Above were the Israeli reconnaissance drones and F16s, in the distance could be heard the dull thud of bombing and the crack of gunfire. From out at sea the IDF were shelling once again, while above them hovered a huge barrage balloon festooned with cameras. But the party went on - sending a message to the murderers above, which says simply, ' You will never kill our way of life and our spirits will never die!' Farid Arada and Clive Searle Viva
Palestina Email Alert
A Zionist frigate
was bombing the fishermen’s boats last night in Gaza. Whilst
the world remains silent Gaza is still being pounded by cowards
from the air and sea. Last night, they bombed tunnels close to heavily
populated areas of the strip. The most moving
story was heard from the remaining members of a large Gaza family
whose story caused an outrage when the Israelis forced them into
an empty building, then bombed it from the air. Discussions on twinning projects took place today and an orphanage, a school and a clinic were singled out as suitable candidates for the twinning projects with towns of districts in the North West. Some members toured a number of camps where scores of tents were erected and they distributed cash donations: fulfilling the personal wishes wish of the many benefactors who could not make the journey themselves. I understand from the members left behind that solidarity with Gaza is a long-term project. Their mission is now a fact finding one, which will be followed by other visits in the near future. Viva Palestina is here to stay and will not abandon one and a half million people, now that it has broken this barbaric siege. According to the Palestinian Information Centre today, and according to the spokesman for the Governmental Committee for Breaking the Siege, 'The arrival of Viva Palestina, the Scottish convoy 'Justice for Gaza' and the Libyan convoy is a victory for the will of the Palestinian people and an important link in the breaking of the Zionist siege'. The spokesman also confirmed that the Arab and foreign activists registered with their courage a new legendary chapter in support of the Palestinian people - and that their will power has succeeded in breaking the siege and defeating the Zionist invader. Today I asked
a member of Viva Palestina, whilst he was inspecting sites of war
torn Gaza, how he felt. He said ' I feel safe, relaxed, loved, I
feel amongst my family and it is going to be heart breaking to leave
them soon.' Viva Palestina and Gaza are one family now, for years to come until the day Gaza and Palestine are FREE. Viva
Palestina Email Alert
Many were in tears, some of them inconsolable at having to leave their new-found family. Today, a large number of the convoy members and the activists who joined them in Gaza made their way to the infamous Rafah crossing to leave Palestine and head home. George Galloway, who met with Prime minister Ismael Hania last night, was due to leave today too. It was a warm meeting where the PM thanked Viva Palestina for breaking the siege and, by doing so, gave a moral boost to the people of Gaza and hope to every Palestinian child. On leaving, George described the destruction as 'unbelievable' and a siege of 'medieval' proportions.
A proposal from Viva Palestina Manchester is being considered by the Gaza officials to twin Cheetham Hill with Rafah, as a symbolic gesture and a show of unity. Cheetham Hill was the departure point for the Manchester contingent and where the Palestine Solidarity Campaign was started in the city many years ago. About twenty stayed behind today to tour the area and to meet with various bodies and officials - in order to assess and evaluate the urgent needs of the Gaza population. Talat Ali, the only convoy leader who decided to stay behind, visited an orphanage housing between 100 to 150 orphans. They listened to harrowing accounts of the slaughter that took away the lives of their loved ones. Some children are so traumatised after spending days and nights under the rubble of their demolished homes, with the bodies of their parents, that they cannot speak. Then, the Viva Palestina members visited an area where tents were erected to house the destitute who lost their homes after the bombings. Each tent has a capacity of between 10-15 people. In These extreme weather conditions, whole families sleep on hard ground, struggling to keep themselves warm in the freezing nights. Last night, F16s bombed Gaza again making martyrs of eight souls. An activist told me that one of the bombs exploded only 200 yards from where they were sleeping. She said ' I went back to sleep '. That is the measure of Viva Palestina and the measure of the people of Gaza, who daily say to Israel, “Your bombs do not scare us and they will NEVER defeat us!” Prepared and translated by Farid Arada Viva
Palestina Email Alert Gaza woke up this morning not to the sounds of F16s and the awful smells and white smoke of phosphorous bombs, but to the amazing sights of those ‘angels’ who have defied the odds to be with them in this time of great need. Today Gaza is in celebration, you can see for the first time in a long while a smile on the faces of traumatised young children who cannot fathom what is going on around them. It was a day also for George Galloway, the leader of Viva Palestina who addressed a rally in the centre of Gaza City. He reiterated that Ismael Hania is the only and legitimate elected leader of the Palestinian people. George also said that there is a crisis in the Arab regimes, because their people and some of their officials, their officers at border controls all despise the siege on the people of Palestine. He added that he would like to thank the Palestinians for the reception Viva Palestina received and for the opportunity to kiss this sacred land on the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet (PBUH). Then he addressed the members of the convoy saying that, “You have now become heroes and legends. No one will ever forget you in Palestine. Your children and brothers will value your actions and will be proud of you.”
”My son Zein Eddine who is two, can see me now on TV from London and he is saying ‘LONG LIVE PALESTINE' When he is a grown man, he will remember that his father decided to get to Palestine and that one day he will, with his own son, come back to Palestine and its capital Jerusalem.” The convoy has been split into groups to allow them to move around war torn Gaza. They have seen at first hand the destruction of hospitals, schools, ministries and official buildings. They visited El salam neighbourhood, El Wafa hospital, the Islamic University and various sites. They will tour the strip and assess what is urgently needed so that plans to follow on with further aid work can be considered on their return. Last night, some members benefited from the hospitality of the Foreign minister. Everyone is overwhelmed by the welcome and generosity of the Palestinians considering they have been left with so little. I am told that a large number of the Convoy will start leaving Gaza tomorrow. Apparently, the Egyptians have told them that the border may close and that therefore they may be stuck in Gaza for days. Will keep you posted. Prepared and translated by Farid Arada Viva
Palestina Email Alert The Viva Palestina
convoy drove slowly along the Salah Eddine road leading to Gaza
City taking in the atmosphere around them and savouring the moment
of history they had just created. According
to the Palestinian Information Centre, George Galloway in his historic
speech from Al Katiba Square, confirmed that Ismael Hania is the
legitimate representative of the Palestinian people and a prime
minister for all the free of the world
Viva
Palestina Update
And they entered side by side like heroes, some on foot some in their vehicles, tears, smiles, hugs, flowers. It was historic, it was legendary. Gaza we are here. We have fulfilled the promise - Viva Palestina! The lifeline from the people of Britain to you, the people of Gaza, has arrived. We have broken the barriers, we have opened closed borders, we have defied the odds,we have overcome the challenges across thousands of miles and three continents. We are here to be with you, to embrace you, to share your tragedy with you. After another morning of intense negotiations, a deal was reached to allow all of the members of the convoy to go through. In the end, Viva Palestina had to make the sacrifice of agreeing that some vehicles will have to cross the border from the Al Ouja Israeli controlled crossing point. This includes our mascot, the fire engine and the boat. This was due to the restrictions imposed by Egyptian law governing the Rafah Crossing. A tearful Talat Ali told me that 'Rafah is the most beautiful crossing in the world', he also said that the time , effort and sacrifices put in by all the Viva Palestina family meant that history has been made today - on the day the prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was born.
George Galloway made an emotional speech thanking the people of Gaza for the wonderful reception and assuring them that for Viva Palestina and in our millions, "WE ARE ALL PALESTINIANS!" George also reiterated that the people of Palestine have voted and that their voice should be respected. Today the convoy will head along the Salah Eddine road towards Gaza City witnessing along the way the destruction and death caused by the Israeli war machine. Along the way they will be greeted by the people of Gaza who will know that Viva Palestina is here and that they will NEVER BE ALONE. Farid Arada
Viva
Palestina Email Alert The convoy has started to move out of the two car parks in Al Arish and onto the road to Rafah. At 7.55 (GMT) George's party reported that the first of the two car parks was now almost empty. It took 90 minutes for all the vehicles to leave. They were waiting for the second group of vehicles to get on the road. George intended his vehicle to be the last to leave - to ensure the safe departure of the entire convoy. Negotiations with the Egyptian authorities have continued. Some non-medical aid was unloaded, in the line with the outcome of the negotiations, and has been handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent for delivery by them to Gaza. The convoy expects to cross later today into Gaza. 22.00
(GMT) Sunday 8th March Viva
Palestina Email Alert
Tonight, the Viva Palestina aid convoy is spending the night in Al Arish close to the Rafah crossing after an eventful day. At one point everything seemed to point out to a smooth crossing until they hit new obstacles, which were not resolved later in the day (see earlier posts) Some Libyan trucks carrying medical aid have been allowed through. There is a consensus though amongst the members of the convoy that no vehicle will go through any Israeli controlled crossing. The motto is 'ALL for one and one for ALL'. They are hopeful that early in the morning, they will start their final leg of a very long journey and roll into Gaza - where thousands of Palestinians have waited all day at the gates of Rafah to greet and welcome them. Children were left in tears, disappointed on hearing the news that their heroes were being prevented from crossing. I am told by team leaders that a security system has been set up to ensure the safety of the convoy members tonight. Relatives should not be worried, everybody is pulling together and the spirits remain high. I am also told that the Egyptian Red Crescent is in the process of unloading some vehicles of food and clothing destined to the Gaza people. Some vans have completely been emptied. Negotiations will resume in the morning as to the inclusion of the fire engine, the generator and the boat in the crossing. The world is watching an event of epic proportions. The Egyptian people would love to see a bunch of brave men and women - who have travelled so far and got so close to achieving their goal and completing their mission - be allowed to deliver their aid and be embraced by the people of Gaza. Farid Arada
Viva
Palestina Convoy Update
The Viva Palestina convoy is still stuck 40km from the Rafah border crossing at Al Arish after failing to progress through the border gates to Gaza. During the day new obstacles have been placed in the path of the convoy passing into Gaza via the Rafar crossing. However, the whole convoy is determined to stay united in purpose and in one piece - and that all vehicles and equipment including the convoy's mascot, the red fire engine as well as the boat and the Bolton generator will enter Gaza together. George Galloway and other convoy leaders have been involved in lengthy negotiations all day with the Egyptian authorities to find a solution and remove these obstacles. Negotiations will carry on for the rest of the day but it does look likely that the convoy will not cross into Gaza today. Indeed, Yvonne Ridley reports, from the Viva Palestina compound in Al Arish, that these is now a football match taking place between the British and Libyan drivers
Members of the convoy have found themselves extremely frustrated - as indeed did those across the border in Gaza waiting to greet the convoy. But everyone is hopeful that the humanitarian aid they have carried for 24 days over 10,000km, across seven countries and two continents, entering their third continent yesterday, will finally reach the needy and destitute people and children of Gaza without any further delays. Will keep you updated. On a brighter note, the Scottish Medical Aid convoy which passed into Gaza yesterday reports that they have distributed all their medical aid to the Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza – including the keys to their trucks. They await the passage of our convoy and send their solidarity greetings. Farid Arada and Clive Searle
A
Viva
Palestina Convoy Update SHOW OF SOLIDARITY
Sadly, it was not the end of their gruelling journey as they are finding life difficult at the border. Press TV reports that leaders of the convoy including George Galloway and deputy leader Talat Ali and Nazir are in intense negotiations with the Egyptians. Reports coming to us suggest that they expect every vehicle to be allowed to cross today. However, Yvonne Ridley reports on Press TV that there are rumours that there is an attempt to move some of the convoy to Israeli controlled crossings. Members of the convoy are united in their determination to cross at the Rafah border crossing. The Libyan contingent, which comprises 100 trucks, is adamant that under NO circumstances they will cross through an Israeli controlled crossing. Will keep you updated. Ahmed Al-Najjar, the deputy manager of the reception committee in Gaza confirms that the key to the opening of the Rafah crossing is with Egypt. The Viva Palestina convoy is another nail in the coffin of the siege according to Mr Al-Najjar. A reception
will take place at the gate of the Rafah crossing where the convoy
will be greeted with flowers and flags. Then they will taken through
the Salah Eddine main road to Gaza City where they will witness
the destruction that the Israelis inflicted on the Palestinian people.
Viva
Palestina Convoy Update
GAZA - WE ARE ALMOST THERE The Souad Viva Palestina convoy is entering the town of El Arich after a long trek of 10 hours on the roads and motorways of Egypt. Gaza is within touching distance and the dreams and aspirations of so many members of this magnificent adventure will be realised tomorrow when they enter Gaza carrying not only aid, but also the hopes of the millions to see the siege broken. Today, the convoy members had to endure a hard journey. They only stopped on a couple of occasions after setting off from Jamsa - and did not stop as planned at the El Salam Bridge. The convoy is now being taken to their accommodation. A press conference and speeches were planned but as it is very late in the night, this may be shelved. According to the Palestinian Information Centre bulletin this evening, the 'Justice for Palestine' Scottish convoy managed to get into Gaza late this afternoon after the Egyptian authorities gave permission for the crossing to take place at Rafah. To our knowledge the convoy includes 20 members in 10 vehicles carrying vital medical aid and equipment for the people of Gaza. This convoy crossed into Gaza after 60 female American peace activists managed earlier to cross the Rafah gate to show their support to the women of Gaza, on the eve of International Women’s Day, and to call for the lifting of the siege. Many news agencies and reporters are awaiting the arrival of this phenomenal convoy. Al Jazzera reports that their crew has been prevented from reporting the arrival of the convoy at El Arich. Tonight, El Arich will experience something special when the people of this town will witness at first hand the arrival of the saviours of Gaza. They will see lorries, vans, cars, driven by humble human beings coming in peace - carrying vital aid and supplies - and answering the critics and sceptics who doubted the aims of this noble mission. Tonight, the western mass media remains silent in its coverage of this massive story, a story created by the people of Britain, with aid coming from the people of Britain. By ignoring the cries of the people of Gaza, once again, Gaza exposes the hypocrisy, double standards and opportunism of the British media. But the British people can see through this injustice, and like never before, Gaza has broken into many British homes and has touched many British hearts. Prepared and translated by Farid Arada Viva
Palestina Convoy Update
'SOUAD VIVA PALESTINA' After a long rest at Matruh, the Viva Palestina convoy started the day late by heading east. Apparently, some were so exhausted that they slept on till late morning. Divided into groups to make the drive and escort manageable, they were planning to stop for Friday prayers along the way. Some groups were delayed and could not make it. They are driving to JEMSA (GEMSA) on the coast, their next location for the night. I am told that it is looking like midnight by the time the last vehicle reaches the coastal town. A reception and dinner is being organised by the local authorities. On that note, Akhbar Elyom newspaper reported today that the General Secretariat of the National Party is overseeing the reception and monitoring the progress of the convoy across various provinces. Working groups have been set up to ensure the various services are provided to the convoy such as accommodation, food and fuel. Young guides and helpers will be on hand to assist convoy members when they stop in their cities. According to AlJazeera.net today, a source from the convoy confirmed that the name of the convoy has been changed to 'SOUAD VIVA PALESTINA' as a sign of respect and commemoration for the Libyan journalist Souad Abu Shiba after her tragic death whilst travelling to cover the convoy story. Some extra
good news arrived today from Egypt where the SCOTTISH
MEDICAL AID CONVOY arrived this morning in the Red Sea port
of Nuweiba. They will be heading north through the Sinai. Translated and prepared by Farid Arada Saturday:
07-03-09 Sunday:
08-03-09
Convoy
Update
A SMOOTH CROSSING INTO
EGYPT Convoy
Update
TRAGEDY SO NEAR TO THE END This afternoon, a Libyan female journalist on her way to join our convoy, was involved, along with her colleague and a photographer in a road traffic accident, which unfortunately resulted in her death. Her two colleagues were also injured ain the crash, but the extent of their injuries is still unknown. The leader of the Manchester contingent Talat Ali and Rabah Abdulramuz would like, on behalf of the Viva Palestina British convoy, to pass on their condolences and prayers to the families of the young lady and a speedy recovery for the injured. They would like to reassure the families back home that all of the British members are safe. However, understandably the mood is very sombre this evening and a Janaza (funeral ceremony) prayer has been organised by the convoy members this evening. The Convoy are now about 20km from the border with Egypt. The Egyptian government has taken charge of the arrangements to ensure a smooth and comfortable crossing of Egypt by Viva Palestina tomorrow morning. An official delegate from The National Party is in the border area preparing the welcome. He has informed the leaders of the route they will be taking and of the program of events awaiting them. What follows is a brief summary, translated from the Arabic program. Thursday:
05-03-09 Friday:
06-03-09 Saturday:
07-03-09 Sunday:
08-03-09
Convoy
Update A NIGHT UNDER THE DESERT STARS It was an experience they will never forget. Spending a night in their vehicles under the desert moonlight. ' I loved it', one of the drivers said to me. Even for the novice campers, it was a unique insight into the beauty of the desert in the middle of nowwhere. As I am writing, the first group are 30KM from AMSA'AD border crossing point which is about 2k from the border. The second contingent is not far away. They will all gather there until tomorrow morning when they are expected to start crossing into Egypt. Depending on arrangements on the Egyptian side and on the processing time from both the Libyans and the Egyptians border control, they should start the final leg of their epic journey tomorrow. According to an Email translated from Arabic, sent by the deputy convoy leader, it is likely that the convoy will take the following route: SALUM- SIDI KRIR-INTERNATIONAL HIGHWAY-DUMYAT PROVINCE-ALSALAM BRIDGE-AL-ARICH- RAFAH. The convoy should reach GAZA on saturday or sunday depending on breakdowns and refuelling times. Will keep you updated. Prepared and translated by Farid Arada Convoy
Update CLOSING
IN ON TUBRUK
Convoy
Update CONVOY OPT FOR DESERT ROUTE After enjoyiong the hospitality of Ras Lanouf, it was felt that the call of Gaza was getting louder and louder and that the aid has to get there as soon as possible. Consultations took place between our convoy leaders and their Libyan counterparts and it was decided that the route will be amended to take the convoy through the desert road to the crossing point of AMSA'AD. This means that they will not go through Benghazi and Bayda where rallies and accomodation had been prepared for them to the disappointment of thousands of Libyans. After setting off at 08.00am local time,they have just stopped in AJDABIYAH after a 200km treck,for fuel and refreshments. What awaits them is No Man's Land for another 400km (240 miles). They will be stopping when needed for rest,prayers and food. Even on the map there are no landmarks and the phone signals can be poor. I am told that one of north west vans was involved in a minor accident and that ALL ARE SAFE and well. Unfortunately the van could not continue on its epic jouney. The families need not worry as the convoy is united and doing well in its noble mission. The plan for today is to drive on and stop for the night when it gets dark. If it all goes to plan,there is every likelihood that the crossing into Egypt will take place sometimes tomorrow. Prepared and translated by Farid Arada
Convoy
Update
WE WILL NEVER FORGET THE PEOPLE OF MISRATA 'They just would not let us leave without us sharing a banquet lunch with them,' one of our drivesr said about the generous and kind people of Misrata. In the Amman Family Tourist village by the sea,our convoy enjoyed a well deserved break in a 5* setting of chalets and restaurants. 'These people are the most beautifull people we have encountered, they came in their droves from all over Misrata to see us and savour the moment,' another driver said. It was not until around 4.00pm our time that they set off for RAS LANOUF, their next stop for the night passing through the city of SIRT. They all seem in high spirits. It is obvious that Libya has provided them with the facilities to recuperate and recharge before pushing on towards Gaza. George, who is with the convoy, said to Libya Elyoum newspaper, that it is thanks to the Gaddafi Foundation and its head Seyf El-Islam Gaddafi, that this convoy is enjoying a smooth crossing of Libya, and that he was keen to establish a partnership with this foundation to guarantee the success of the convoy. He also said that 'we say little and achieve much' George said that theLlibyan contingent of about 100 trucks 'knows the road to Gaza' because they are better than any map in the world in helping our drivers get to their ultimate destination safely. He goes on to add that a number of British and Egyptian personalities are expected to join the convoy in Egypt including members of parliament and film stars. As I am writing,they are now stopping KHAZZAN ALKARDABIA where a festive 'gala dinner' awaits them. They will then set off for Ras Lanouf for their overnight stay. Prepared and translated by Farid Arada
Convoy
Update
GAZA VILLAGE IS BORN IN MISURATA The convoy is in Misurata. The hospitality of the Libyan people, government and the Gaddafi Foundation has left the convoy members in tears. After the the public rally in Tripoli today (pictures here), they set off with an additional 60 Libyan vehicles loaded with humanitarean aid and medecine towards the coastal town of Misrata. They were met with jubilant ordinary Libyans who hold Palestine and Gaza close to their hearts. The organisers and the Gaddafi Foundation are ensuring the smooth and safe passage of the convoy through Libya by providing everything the convoy needs - from free fuel to accomodation and repairs, etc. This evening, our drivers and their passengers were being driven in coaches to the newly built and inaugurated GAZA VILLAGE on the outskirt of Misrata. It is a tribute to the memory of the fallen martyrs of Gaza and a message to the children of Palestine from a long standing staunch ally of their just cause. According to Libyan TV News this evening, the convoy could reach 300 vehicles by the time it reaches the border. I have just seen the size of some of the HGV's going to Gaza lined up with ours. It is an awsome sight,a mammoth task only made possible by some legendary men and women. In one of the
speeches today in Tripoli, one of the convoy leaders said to the
crowd that this convoy was not just a Viva Palestina British, Islamic,
Christian, Arab and European but it was first and foremost humanitarian,
where all humanity in all its diverse cultures, languages and religions
contributed to it. Tomorrow is
a big day as Libya celebrates the creation of the Republic (Jamahiria).The
convoy will head for SIRT where they will savour Libyan hospitality
once again.
Convoy
Update
They are in their thousands in the Green Public square of Tripoli attending a big rally to welcome the Viva Palestina humanitarian Gaza convoy. This is the first of many planned in Libya. Ambassadors, dignitaries, representatives from the Gadaffi Foundation as well as the children of Palestine have spoken of the horrors and the tragedy of Gaza. Gift bags containing caps, T-Shirts, books have been given to members of the convoy as a gesture of thanks and admiration for their efforts to get the aid to the destitute people of Gaza. Up to 100 Libyan trucks are joining the convoy starting with the Tripoli contingent today including ambulances and a fire engine. The Gaddafi International Charity and Development Foundation (GICDF) is sending a considerable quantity of medical aid. After drinks and sandwiches, they will head for the city of Misrata passing and possibly stopping in Khums. Farid Arada
Convoy
Update
Libya is offering the opportunity to catch up on some well deserved sleep.Tomorrow Tripoli will greet them as the breakers of the siege of Gaza. Libya has been over decades a staunch ally of the Palestinian people. The sheer size of the convoy and the logistics of keeping it going to the border seems to have been well studied by the Libyan authorities and a program has been designed to give the Libyan people the chance to see, meet and savour this historical moment along the way to the border with Egypt. According to the Tripoli Post, the convoy is expected to take the span of four days to cross Libyan territories and drive over 1,900 kms, in order to reach Imsa'id's border post with Egypt. Leading the welcome preparations of the convoy is the Gaddafi International Charity and Development Foundation (GICDF) which said it is to join the Viva Palestina with its own convoy of medical aid. GICDF has for over a week been contacting Libyan public and private institutions to contribute to the aid convoy and to take part in the welcoming of the members of this humanitarian mission. Farid
Arada and others Update
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As I am writing these lines, chants, palestinian flags and slogans are being displayed around the convoy heros. The police are having a job on their hands trying to contain the jubilation and excitement of the crowds and are even thinking of moving the convoy to the border crossing point of Ras Ajdir about 30km away (18 miles). Accomodation in Hotels and food was prepared for the convoy by various Tunisian organisations who are insisting on the convoy's overnight stay in their city prior to crossing into Libya tomorrow morning. Talat Ali tells me that the convoy is crawling through the city.RabahAbdulramuz confirmed few minutes ago that the Tunisian authorities decided to move the convoy away from the city to the crossing point of Ras Ajdir. The
convoy is now close to the border.It looks like a night in the vans
after the comfy beds of Gabes.
Convoy
Update
They have just stopped in Medanine for friday prayers. I am told that they will most likely spend the night at the borders before entering Libya tomorrow.
Convoy
Update
Convoy
Update
The first part of the journey in Tunisia did not go as planned. After receiving food at the border,there was a huge popular support in the town of Gafsa which slowed the convoy down. The authorities were taken by surprise and feared a riot according to some drivers. By then about a third had already carried on to the town of GABES (click map), another 3 hours away,where george and the governor of the city had booked accomodation for the convoy. So, the convoy was split and two thirds stayed the night in their vehicles in Gafsa. They were unfortunate with the weather as sand storms and rain hit the area. Some drivers are feeling very tired. Rabah is suffering from a bout of Tonsillitis and could have done from a night in the warmth and Anti-Biotics. Talat would like to reassure all the families that it is a gruelling journey for a good cause and that everyone on board is coping well. He told me to convey a message of 'Not to worry'. They are now close to the city of Gabes where they will rejoin the rest of the group. The consensus is that they HAVE to rest today before making a push towards the Libyan border for the sake of their health and safety. Farid Arada
Convoy
Update
Early this evening the convoy crossed into Tunisia to the tears and cheers of the massive Algerian crowds who waived them off at the border crossing. The Algerian consul as well as some officials wished them all the best for the remainder of their long journey. The convoy will not be travelling via Tunis. The next stop for the night will be in GAFSA (click map) where hotel accommodation has apparently been arranged. They are driving under police escort and everyone is doing well, reflecting on crossing Algeria - the second largest country in Africa. I have just received a first-hand account of the massive public support the convoy received from its crossing the borders to the town of Gafsa where people have lined the streets and greeted the Viva Palestina convoy with cheers, flags, water, juice, dates, food... Even at this time of the night, the town is buzzing as it receives the heroes who are a symbol of hope to a just cause. The next stop will be the borders with Libya unless the convoy decides to take a well deserved day off. Farid Arada
Convoy
Update
Regards, Farid Arada
Rabah, Palestinian tells me that they stopped for some Algerian Merguez (Sausages), the man refused to get paid and filled their van with bottled water and drinks. The reason for the delays also has something to do with fuel stoppages. Apparently it can take up to 3 hours to fill up if you are at the back of the convoy. This time they were split into groups.The first group left the rest crawling and arrived to Constantine more than an hour ahead.It is raining over there at the moment. As I am writing, I believe that they are now in Ein Samara on the outskirts of Constantine. When I was there 28 years ago, it was a campus and student area. My contact from Alchorouk daily, Belgacem Adjadj and his photographer Alaeddine, told me that the newspaper organised accomodation at hotels. However,the convoy may be spending the night in their vans due to a leadership decision. Unless there are last minute changes. A member of the convoy is however spending the night in a hotel suffering from extreme exhaustion. I am told he will be fine in the morning. The
drive tomorrow should be much easier with a shorter route and better
roads towards hopefully Annaba. If not they will head for Tebessa
which will mean crossing into Tunisia further south.
20/02/2009
- Update
ALGERIA OPEN ITS BORDERS WITH MOROCCO IN EXCEPTION MOVEW FOR THE PASSAGE OF THE GAZA CONVOY.
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George Galloway salutes Freedom Flotilla! 
Viva Palestina Convoy changes route 
Next month, in the depths of winter, four local people will set out to drive an ambulance thousands of miles overland to Gaza. STEPHEN LEWIS asked them why. 
07/10/2009 
Viva Palestina convoy on the TV 
30/03/2009
Guardian Films, the documentary arm of the Guardian Newspaper, has produced a series of films on alleged war crimes committed by Israel during the 23-day offensive against Gaza earlier this year. 
GAZA
AND VIVA PALESTINA...ONE FAMILY
A
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
Prime
Minister Hania handed George his personal Prime Minister's passport
as a symbolic gesture of gratitude and appreciation for his stance
with the Palestinian people. Other gifts and souvenirs were handed
to members of Viva Palestina. 
THE ‘ANGELS’ ARE IN TOWN
BREAKING
THE SIEGE - 
SO
CLOSE...
It
has been a long drive across the hills of Bouira,Borj Bouareridj
and Setif. The same warm welcome and generosity was shown by the
Algerian crowds.
17/02/2009
