The "Flotillas to Gaza" (Freedom Flotilla) movement, which has brought together hundreds of unarmed activists from around the world to challenge the blockade on Gaza and draw global attention to the humanitarian crisis, has been honored with the 2026 War Abolisher Award, presented by the international peace organization World BEYOND War.

Widely regarded as one of the world's most prestigious international honors recognizing anti-war initiatives—and often described as an independent civil society alternative to the Nobel Peace Prize—the War Abolisher Award has this year been awarded to the Freedom Flotilla and the Global Sumud Flotilla for their efforts to challenge the blockade on Gaza. The award recognizes their commitment to peace, justice, and nonviolent civilian resistance, while reflecting the international community's appreciation for their humanitarian mission.

Mavi Marmara President Beheşti İsmail Songür to Receive the Award

The award will be presented on behalf of a movement that has organized one of the largest civilian humanitarian flotillas in history, bringing together more than 2,000 participants from over 45 countries and a fleet of 86 vessels in the Mediterranean Sea.

The recipients are Beheşti İsmail Songür, President of the Mavi Marmara Association and representative of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, and Thiago de Ávila e Silva Oliveira, representative of the Global Sumud Flotilla.

The award will be presented by Liz Remmerswaal, Vice President of World BEYOND War.

Award Ceremony to Be Broadcast Live Today at 20:00 (Turkey Time)

The international award ceremony, organized by the U.S.-based World BEYOND War, will be held today and broadcast live via Zoom at 20:00 Turkey Time (TRT/UTC+3).

"Nonviolent Civil Resistance Has Changed the Global Conversation"

In its official statement, World BEYOND War emphasized that the humanitarian stance demonstrated by hundreds of unarmed civilians confronting heavily armed military forces has helped mobilize international diplomacy. The organization noted that the global awareness generated by the flotillas has contributed to diplomatic initiatives concerning the Gaza blockade by countries including Spain, France, Ireland, and South Korea.

Ahead of the ceremony, representatives of the Freedom Flotilla stated that receiving such a respected international distinction—widely regarded as an alternative to the Nobel Peace Prize—is not only an honor for the flotillas themselves but also a powerful expression of solidarity with the Palestinian people's struggle for freedom and justice.

They reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their humanitarian and nonviolent civilian efforts until the blockade on Gaza is lifted and a just and lasting peace is achieved.