The Belgian Foreign Minister Maximle Prévot (Francophone centrist) says that Belgians taking part in an international aid flotilla heaving for Gaza can rely on help from Spain and Italy if needs be. In a press release, Mr Prévot thanks the Italian and Spanish governments.
Foreign Minister says Spain and Italy will help Global Sumud Flotilla Belgians if needs be
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The Belgian Foreign Minister warns those taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla that are “exposing themselves to significant risks”. He also condemned Israel’s labelling of those taking part in the flotilla as terrorists.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is made up of around 50 vessels carrying aid destined for Gaza. On Wednesday those taking part in the flotilla reported drone attacks, flash grenades and disrupted radio communications. Two ships were reportedly. damaged.
Mr Prévot urges caution
Participants from several countries, including Belgium, are taking part in the flotilla. Mr Prévot urges Belgians in the flotilla to be cautious. “However commendable the initiative may be, given the dramatic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, I would like to reiterate that the action exposes the participants to significant risks.” The Belgian Foreign Minister added that “life-endangering actions by activists are not necessary to convince the international community of Gaza’s plight".
Meanwhile, the Israeli authorities have made it clear that they “will not allow any access to Israeli territory or passage through Israeli territorial waters, and that it could equate those who do take that risk with terrorists.” Mr Prévot condemned this and added “We can therefore only reiterate our call for the utmost caution and to avoid any action that could endanger the flotilla participants.”
The Belgian Foreign Minister went on to say that he has spoken to his Spanish and Italian counterparts and both countries have dispatched naval vessals to the area. “If necessary, Belgians will be given help by our Italian and Spanish friends”. However, the Spanish and Italian ships will not engage in any military action, nor will they enter Israeli territorial waters without permission.