Lawyer Abdelhaq Benkadi, a member of the Executive Office of the Moroccan Space for Human Rights, is taking part in the Global Freedom Flotilla bound for Gaza. In this interview with Yabiladi, he shares details about the flotilla's journey, its response to Israeli attacks and threats, the spirit of solidarity among participants, and the humanitarian message it seeks to deliver. Where has the journey of the Global Freedom Flotilla reached, and how much time remains until you reach Gaza ? Most of the ships are currently near the Greek coast, heading toward Cyprus. Some remain in the port of Porto, Italy, delayed mainly by two factors: maintenance and repair work, and bad weather conditions. Six ships are expected to set sail today from Porto to join those already near Greece. Under normal weather conditions, the journey from the Greek coast to Gaza should take about five days, though poor weather could extend it by one or two days. How did you respond to the attacks carried out by Israeli drones last night? We anticipated such attacks, which began earlier when we were at the ports of Sidi Bou Said and Bizerte in Tunisia. However, last night there was a noticeable increase in the number of drones and a shift in the methods of attack and types of bombs used. Thankfully, we did not suffer any damage or losses, though the attacks targeted communication systems between the ships. The flotilla immediately assessed the situation and adjusted its sailing plan. Morale remains very high because these scenarios were anticipated from the outset. We know the flotilla will be attacked and obstructed, but our goal is clear and rooted in international law. It is the occupying power that violates these laws, not us. Our determination is unwavering: we will continue until the blockade is broken and a humanitarian maritime corridor is opened to deliver aid to Gaza. What is your perspective on the Israeli threats to intervene to prevent you from reaching Gaza? The Israeli Foreign Ministry's statement declaring the area a combat zone off-limits is not surprising. Such threats are typical of the occupying power, especially given the scale of this flotilla, the number of ships, the diversity of participants' nationalities, and the presence of prominent figures, all of which unsettle Israel as it continues its war on Gaza, marked by blockade, starvation, and severe violations for nearly two years. From the beginning, the flotilla prepared alternative plans in case of obstruction. Since departing from Barcelona, Tunisia, and Italy, we have studied the data, drawn on past experiences, and made arrangements to avoid disruptions, attacks, or communication breakdowns. The strategy is to keep the ships together, maintain constant communication, and ensure the flotilla's message reaches the world. Above all, this is a legal and peaceful mission, fully in line with international law. Every step is continuously adjusted to serve the main goal: breaking the blockade, delivering aid, and opening a humanitarian corridor. How do you spend your day on board the flotilla ships? Life on board is far from routine. The circumstances of time, place, and the diversity of nationalities, customs, and traditions create a unique environment. Each ship has its own program adapted to its situation. What stands out most is the human dimension: the relationships, communication, mutual respect, and solidarity among participants united by a single goal, ending the blockade. Daily life and tasks remain secondary to that mission. The flotilla has been on this journey for about 23 days since reaching Tunisia, and around eight days since setting sail. Each day includes routine tasks to keep the ships supplied and running, divided naturally between the crew and participants. Everyone also has personal time for reading or other activities. In your view, what impact will this humanitarian initiative have? The Global Freedom Flotilla will leave a significant mark. This is a massive humanitarian effort, unprecedented in scale, participation, and timing. Its impact will go beyond Palestine, though the Palestinian cause remains central due to the ongoing atrocities and the silence of much of the international community. The flotilla strengthens the global humanitarian struggle, promoting dialogue, peace, solidarity, and justice. It will also influence decision-makers worldwide, with some effects emerging soon while others take root over the long term. Ultimately, it will contribute to confronting injustice and oppression wherever it exists. What does reaching Gaza mean to you personally? For me, reaching Gaza is a long-awaited dream. Palestine, Gaza, and Al-Aqsa Mosque are part of my identity, my faith, and my being. Joining this flotilla means heading toward people and a cause that I feel deeply connected to. The world's helplessness and silence in the face of Gaza's suffering has weighed heavily on us. Now, through this action, even if modest, we are offering something tangible to Gaza and Palestine. This initiative will not be the last; others will follow, larger and bolder. I believe this humanitarian struggle is building a broad and effective front of free and honorable people worldwide. I feel proud to contribute, knowing that this effort will help break the blockade, stop the expansion of Zionism, and challenge oppression in the region.
