The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), together with global initiatives working to end Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, held a four-day meeting in Dublin, the capital of Ireland, from December 5–8, 2025.
The meeting was attended by representatives of FFC member organizations, the coalition’s working committees, and delegates from international solidarity networks. During the discussions, missions carried out throughout 2025 were reviewed, and preparations were finalized for the 2026 sailing season, which is planned to be significantly expanded compared to previous years. Founded in 2010 and now an international network consisting of 18 national campaigns, the FFC conducted numerous voyages throughout 2025 with several vessels, including the Madleen, Handala, and Conscience, challenging Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, which is described as being in violation of international law.
Turkey was represented by the Mavi Marmara Freedom and Solidarity Association. The association’s president, Beheşti İsmail Songür, personally participated in the meetings and shared assessments on solidarity efforts in Turkey and civil society’s struggle against the blockade imposed on Gaza.
Deep Concern Over the Situation in Gaza
Delegates attending the meeting expressed deep concern over Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza, despite what has been described as a “ceasefire.” Statements emphasized that Israel continues its attacks with impunity, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians, more than 70 of whom are children. It was also highlighted that Israel is blocking the entry into Gaza of tents, blankets, medical supplies, and baby formula—items that are vital for the survival of displaced families during winter conditions. Participants agreed that stopping the genocide, lifting the siege, and ending the decades-long system of apartheid and occupation require coordinated international civil society action on an unprecedented scale.
Strong Criticism of UN Security Council Resolution 2803
The meeting took place just three weeks after the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2803. The FFC stated that this resolution represents a historic betrayal not only of the Palestinian people but also of the principles the United Nations claims to uphold. According to the coalition, Resolution 2803 constitutes one of the most dangerous attempts to render international law ineffective. It was argued that the resolution does not advance Palestinian rights; rather, it establishes a neo-colonial trusteeship system driven by powers that have long armed, financed, and politically protected Israel’s policies.
“When States Fail, People Must Act”
Huwaida Arraf, a member of the FFC Steering Committee and of the U.S. Boats to Gaza, stated in her remarks on the resolution:
“UN Security Council Resolution 2803 is a moral abdication by the world’s most powerful governments and by an institution that has failed Palestinians for more than 80 years. When states fail, people must act. This is not a time for retreat; it is a time to intensify our decolonial struggle, broaden our ranks, and transform collective outrage into an unstoppable global momentum.”
Bent Erik Krøyer, also a member of the FFC Steering Committee and a representative of Ship to Gaza Denmark, shared the following message regarding the 2026 plans:
“The Freedom Flotilla will sail again in 2026. This is not a symbolic gesture; it is a powerful statement that civil society will not remain silent while Gaza is being suffocated and destroyed. We are preparing for more ships than ever before, broader international participation, and far more coordinated actions.”
A Larger and Stronger Flotilla in 2026
The FFC’s efforts to break the naval blockade on Gaza expanded significantly in 2025 with the joining of two major new initiatives.
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) and Thousand Madleens to Gaza (TMTG) initiatives led historic numbers of vessels to set sail in opposition to Israel’s policies of genocide and siege in Gaza. Representatives of both initiatives participated in the Dublin meetings, where coordination was established for an even larger, jointly organized international maritime mission planned for 2026.
“Gaza Needs Our Solidarity More Than Ever”
In the joint statement issued at the conclusion of the meeting, it was emphasized that Gaza today needs global solidarity more than ever. It was stated that ending the blockade is not only a political issue but a profound moral responsibility, delivering the following message:
“Until Palestinians in Gaza are able to live in freedom, dignity, and justice, we will continue to act in solidarity, organize, and set sail.”
