A small ship set sail from the port of Gallipoli, modest in size but enormous in its significance. It is the Handala, an old Norwegian fishing boat from 1968, now transformed into a symbol of resistance and solidarity.
On board, about twenty people from various countries—including Italy, France, Tunisia, Canada, and the United States—are ready to brave the waters of the Mediterranean with a specific purpose: to deliver humanitarian aid and break the silence on the months-old siege of Gaza.
Who participates in Handala?
Participants include activists, journalists, doctors, and two French MPs from the La France Insoumise group, Emma Fourreau and Gabrielle Cathala, who are leading the initiative. This is an entirely civilian mission, devoid of state symbols or diplomatic protection. The goal is clear: to physically reach Gaza, defying the naval blockade imposed by Israel, and deliver basic necessities such as food, medicine, formula, and children's toys.
Two worrying episodes for Handala
"We are not bringing a political message, but a human gesture,” the promoters emphasized before departure. Despite the atmosphere of enthusiasm and determination, the journey did not begin without obstacles. In the days leading up to departure, the Handala was at the center of two worrying incidents: a cable was intentionally tangled around the propeller, and a canister containing sulfuric acid was deceptively delivered instead of drinking water. Two volunteers suffered burns. It was clearly an attempted sabotage. Yet, the ship set sail anyway. Dented, but not broken. Gallipoli greeted the vessel with a wave of solidaritySmall boats escorted her in a procession, amid banners, music, applause, and emotion.
Citizens from all over Italy and the imam of Lecce, testifying to the interfaith and universal nature of the initiative. The Handala expects to arrive near Gaza by the end of July. The danger is real: previous expeditions have been stopped by Israeli authorities, as happened with the Madleen. But the crew, aware of the risks, continues without hesitation. Their journey is not only geographical, but profoundly human.
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