Flotilla diverts course after mayday call: “life is important to us”

Gaza Freedom Flotilla has diverted its course after receiving a mayday call from a nearby vessel in distress, according to a social media update from one of the activists on board.

“We just received a mayday call for a search and rescue situation, and we are changing our course to provide any assistance we can!” said Thiago Ávilaone, an activist aboard the Madleen, in an Instagram post on Thursday.

The Madleen is a humanitarian flotilla aiming to deliver aid to Gaza and raise international awareness of the 'Israeli' blockade on the coastal enclave. The incident occurred during the flotilla’s fifth day at sea, while it was traveling in international waters.

Ávilaone said the vessel was located approximately two hours away from the Madleen's current position. “Life is a priority to us,” he added, explaining why the crew made the immediate decision to alter their route.

The Madleen is part of a multi-national civil society effort attempting to break the blockade on Gaza. Similar flotillas in the past have faced interception by 'Israeli' naval forces before reaching the Gaza coast.