Surya McEwen, a Goonengerry activist from Northern New South Wales, was about to step onto a boat. Then, out of nowhere, news came that their ship had been hit in a drone attack while sailing in international waters off the coast of Malta. Renamed Conscience, the ship brought 30 pro-Palestinian activists in addition to a crew of 12. Killed were four civilian passengers on board. The ship was en route to Gaza with desperately needed humanitarian supplies. The cargo included food and medical aid badly needed in the context of the ongoing Israeli blockade.
The nature of this attack left little doubt as to the immediate safety of those on board. Earlier in the campaign, as events were still developing, activist Tania Safi described what she was afraid of.
“It’s just shocking. I’m terrified for their safety at the moment.” – Tania Safi
Details of the Incident
The Conscience was hit just days before McEwen and his fellow activists were scheduled to join the mission. The delegation pushed for increasing the delivery of humanitarian aid to the besieged area of Gaza. This coastal area has suffered under an Israeli siege for over a decade. Survivor accounts reported that following the attack, the vessel started sinking quickly.
The Maltese government eventually reassured that all crew were safe with no explanation for the alarming situation producing such a dangerous crew. The most recent update from those aboard provided reassuring news that they had put out the damage done by the initial drone fire. Yet, the risk of flooding hangs heavy in the air.
“There’s no power on the ship, and it’s at serious risk,” – Surya McEwen
The activists aboard the Conscience are just one contingent of a much larger movement working for Palestinian rights. Their intended mission was to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to bring much-needed supplies. Tania Safi made sure to highlight that their actions are profoundly rooted in international law.
Humanitarian Mission Under Threat
Despite the danger they are facing, these activists continue to commit to raising awareness about the dire situation faced by Palestinians under blockade. Their commitment speaks to the burgeoning international movement of solidarity that is continuing to work to address ongoing humanitarian crises.
“Every single mission is done abiding to international law,” – Tania Safi
Despite the risks involved, these activists remain determined to draw attention to the plight of Palestinians living under blockade. Their commitment reflects a growing international solidarity movement aimed at addressing ongoing humanitarian issues.
