Activists Launch Boat from Bristol to Challenge Gaza Blockade
By Editor • August 17, 2026 • 1 min read
From the quays of Bristol, a vessel known as 'Kate' has set sail, marking the latest attempt by activists to breach Israel's long-standing blockade of Gaza. The boat departed on Sunday, amid a gathering of supporters, including prominent figures like Dr. Swee Ang, founder of Medical Aid for Palestinians, and Welsh nurse Leigh Evans.
Captain Fiacc O Brolchain, who has previously faced detention by Israeli forces, shared his harrowing experience of being interrogated and having his hearing aids confiscated. Despite Israel's history of intercepting such missions, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition remains steadfast in its resolve.
Frank Romano, an international lawyer involved with the flotilla, highlighted the recent surge in Israeli interceptions, with over 75 ships detained since October 2023. Romano's own vessel, 'Handala', was seized in July 2025 during similar efforts. The coalition's initiatives have reportedly incurred costs of $24 million, with a much larger mission initiated earlier this year.
Colm Byrne, another activist, recounted the brutal treatment faced by flotilla members during previous attempts, emphasizing that while their experiences were traumatic, they pale in comparison to the sufferings of Palestinian prisoners.
Source: www.aljazeera.com
