I am writing as a student, parent, and as someone who believes in the ethical responsibilities of academic institutions, to ask what Anglia Ruskin University is doing in response to the deepening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza — and more specifically, in light of the illegal attack on the Madleen, a UK humanitarian aid ship that was intercepted just last night by Israeli military forces in international waters.

The Madleen, carrying vital supplies to the besieged people of Gaza, was recently assaulted in international waters by Israeli forces despite declaring its symbolic cargo of life-saving baby formula, flour, and medical supplies. The British-flagged vessel, en route to the Gazan shore, was bombarded with white substance, subjected to psychological warfare, and ultimately boarded — all in violation of international maritime law. This deeply troubling assault on a humanitarian mission has received virtually no coverage from mainstream media, yet it represents a dangerous escalation and a clear disregard for the most basic tenets of international law and human rights.

No direct, official public statement from ARU condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza has been identified. In contrast, other UK institutions (e.g., UCU, many academic signatories) have been vocal in calling for ceasefire and criticizing human rights abuses

As a university committed to knowledge, justice, and social responsibility, Anglia Ruskin cannot afford to remain silent. The situation in Gaza — marked by mass civilian casualties, widespread displacement, and starvation — constitutes a historic injustice. The complicity of Western institutions, including universities, through silence or inaction is deeply troubling.

An entire people, including innocent children, should never be subjected to assault as a result of an ongoing historic conflict. No past grievance can justify collective punishment, displacement, or the destruction of lives and communities.

It is not enough to educate minds — a university must also lead with conscience. History is watching. Your leadership, or lack thereof, will be remembered.

 

We therefore ask: will Anglia Ruskin University as an institution:

• Issue a statement condemning the assault on humanitarian missions such as the Madleen?

• Issue a statement condemning the ongoing bombardment and military operations in Gaza?

• Review any partnerships, research collaborations, or investments with institutions complicit in the Israeli occupation or arms trade?

• Reiterate that students and staff have the freedom and support to express solidarity with Palestine without fear of institutional backlash?

• Promote initiatives to raise awareness and foster dialogue about the crisis?

 

We are aware that Anglia Ruskin has a "How to support people affected by conflict"* page on its website, but will the university act as a voice of reason and humanity in light of this grave violation of humanitarian norms? Will it end the narrative of complicity and protect the interests of peace and justice? And finally, will you — as students, members of the community, and human beings — put pressure on our institutions to use their influence to raise awareness and oppose these ongoing violations of international law?

We respectfully call on Anglia Ruskin University to reaffirm its values of justice, academic integrity, and global citizenship. In a time of immense human suffering, neutrality is not an option. We ask the university to act — publicly, transparently, and with moral clarity.

 

Disclaimer: This petition represents the views of concerned individuals and not those of any institution or organization.

• https://www.aru.ac.uk/students-and-staff/how-to-support-people-affected-by-conflict