“The World Must Rise”
Speaking at the press conference, Bülent Yıldırım, President of the İHH İnsani Yardım Vakfı, stated that previous maritime initiatives had yielded meaningful outcomes and emphasized that this new organization represents a broader and more comprehensive civil mobilization. He underscored that the international community must not remain silent and announced the launch of a multidimensional solidarity movement extending from public squares to the seas.
Osman Nuri Kabaktepe, President of the Palestine Support Platform, noted that the ongoing events have deeply wounded the conscience of humanity and called for a stronger and more unified global voice.
Selman Esmerer, President of the Yeni Bir Dünya Sanayici ve İşadamları Derneği (YENİAD), affirmed that solidarity would continue until the freedom of the Palestinian people is secured.
International Participation and Civil Initiative
Representatives from various countries also addressed the meeting, highlighting the international dimension of the initiative. Volunteers participating in the flotilla emphasized that any sustainable solution must be grounded in justice and in full compliance with international law.
Delegates from Asia stressed the critical importance of global public solidarity and called on civil society worldwide to take collective action.
“This Blockade Will Be Broken by Sea”
In his address, Beheşti İsmail Songür, President of the Mavi Marmara Özgürlük ve Dayanışma Derneği, recalled that numerous initiatives had previously been undertaken to lift the blockade on Gaza and stated:
“We have made repeated maritime attempts to break the blockade on Gaza. Today, together with civil initiatives from different parts of the world, we are organizing a broader and more comprehensive effort. This blockade is unlawful, and it will be broken by sea.”
It was also noted that within the flotilla’s new organizational structure, efforts are underway to ensure representation from each participating country aboard the vessels.
Call for Medical and Technical Support
Speakers drew attention to the ongoing health and food crisis in Gaza and issued a particular call to medical professionals. The participation of doctors, nurses, and technical personnel in the flotilla was described as vital.
In the maritime field, there is also a need for captains, sailors, marine engineers, and other technical experts. Applications may be submitted through the official channels of the Freedom and Sumud Flotilla.
Public Call to Action
In the joint statement delivered at the conclusion of the press conference, participants emphasized the need for vigilance against attempts to “normalize” the blockade on Gaza through political and administrative arrangements. It was underlined that conditioning humanitarian aid on political or military considerations constitutes a violation of international law, and a call was made to the conscience of the global community.
The public statement included the following remarks:
“Be part of this mobilization. Uphold this mission in ports, in public squares, in the field of law, and in humanitarian relief efforts. Where a blockade persists, aid is obstructed, and the rule of law is suspended, remaining passive is not neutrality; it is de facto acceptance.”
Those who wish to join the flotilla may complete their registration through the official application link.
The press conference concluded following the statements and public address.
