My statement on the ship “Madleen” and what we all know is coming:

I’m watching this moment with a heavy heart.

The ship Madleen is sailing toward Gaza, carrying aid, medical supplies, and people of conscience from around the world. These people are not armed. They are not enemies. They are doing what the world should have done long ago,breaking the silence, and trying to break the blockade.

And yet we know what is coming.

According to the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation (KAN), the Israeli army is preparing to seize the ship and tow it to Ashdod Port, where the activists will be detained and deported    .

This is not new. We’ve seen it before:
In 2010, the Freedom Flotilla, led by the Mavi Marmara, was attacked in international waters — nine activists were killed .
In 2016, the women’s boat Zaytouna_Oliva was intercepted before reaching Gaza.
In 2018, two more ships ,Freedom and Return,were blocked and their crew arrested.
In May 2025, another vessel, Conscience, was struck by drones in international waters near Malta ,its successor, Madleen, set sail on 1 June 2025 from Sicily .

Not a single one of those missions made it to Gaza.

Every time, the same story:
Peaceful mission. Violent response. International silence.

So no, what’s happening to the Madleen is not surprising.
But that doesn’t make it acceptable.

I’m sorry to every person on that ship.
I’m sorry that you are met with warships instead of welcome.
I’m sorry that your courage is seen as a threat.
But I thank you. You are not just carrying medicine ,you are carrying dignity, and we see you.

To the people of the world:

What are we waiting for?
What else needs to happen for this blockade to be seen for what it is ,collective punishment and a crime against humanity?

If the Madleen is stopped, it won’t be the end.
It will be another reminder that we must push louder, speak stronger, and refuse to look away.

Gaza is not alone.
Palestine is not a headline.
We are human beings ,and we will not be erased.

This is why I, Fares Abulebda, raise my voice ,not only for my own safety, but for the safety and dignity of every human being in Gaza.

Please support this petition and let the world hear us.
change.org/FaresAbulebda

Palestinian voice for justice