Ann Wright, of the US Boat to Gaza, compiled this list of the status of flotilla boats, accurate as of this week-end.
US Boat to Gaza
The Audacity of Hope still at Coast Guard pier at Keritsini awaiting minor repairs & another inspection. Once we get a new Captain, we will apply for permit to travel to get out of this port, but no decisions on when and where to go. Thursday, July 7, ten of us had a spirited protest at the US Ambassador’s residence where the US Embassy’s 4th of July event was taking place. We were immediately photographed and stalked and ultimately chased by the ninja-turtle riot police. The police tried to detain three, including two grandmothers who broke free and stomped off yelling “Would you do this to your grandmother?”
French ships Dignite and Louise Michel
Thursday, the French boat Dignite that sailed from Corsica two weeks ago went into a small port in Crete to refuel and was stopped by Greek Coast Guard and is still detained.
The other French ship, the beautiful two masted schooner, the Louise Michel is still at the Zea Marina in Piraeus awaiting further inspections.
Canadian Boat Tahrir
The Canadian boat Tahrir is still in the port of Aghia Nicholai in Crete getting damage repaired from the Greek Coast Guard slamming the boat into the pier when it was towed back from its “escape.’ 3 were arrested and now have been given a suspended sentence of 30 days and an 80 euro fine. They will apply for a travel permit when the inspection of completion of repairs of the damage is done.
Greek-Swedish-Norweigian boat Julianno
The Greek-Swedish-Norweigian boat Julianno was allowed to leave port in Athens and sail only in the Greek islands. It is being followed by a Greek Coast Guard vessel to ensure it does not “escape” to Gaza.
Spanish ship Guernica
The Spanish ship Guernica is still at dock with the never ending list of inspection items-Spanish activists still occupy the Spanish Embassy in Athens, demanding that the Spanish Ambassador to Greece urge the Spanish Foreign Minister to take on the Greek and Israeli governments’ decision to not allow the boats to sail.
Italian-Dutch boat
The Italian-Dutch boat is still at dock attempting to fulfill inspection requirements.
Irish Boat
The Irish boat in Turkey is still undergoing repairs from the sabotage of its propeller shaft one week ago.Greek-Swedish Cargo ship
The Greek-Swedish cargo ship that was to carry cement to Gaza has now been told by the cement company that they can not sell cement that is destined for Gaza!!! I have included the email of the director of the cement company so you might let her know of your outrage!
I am sending attached the decision of the Greek Minister of Citizen
Protection by which:
Taking into consideration
– The naval blockade by Israel of the marine territory of Gaza as
well as the declaration of the Israel authorities for use of violence
against anyone who attempts to break the said blockade
– The direct danger for human life and safety as well as the
safety of sailing resulting from the participation in an attempt of
breaking the said blockade
– The letter of the UN General Secretary of 24th May 2011 to the
Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs by which he is asking from the State
Members of the UN, specifically those which have a foot in the
Mediterranean, to use their influence in order to discourage the
realization of such actions that might lead to an escalation of
violence
– The need to protect the national interests.
“It is forbidden to vessels under Greek or foreign flag to sail from
Greek ports with destination the Gaza zone under naval blockade”
I am also sending the translation of the relevant Foreign Ministry
announcement (2nd page of the first attachment).
Therefore, due to Force Majeure we cannot deliver the cement and we
are going to send back to your account the 25,200 euro we received as
an advance payment; please send us your bank account full style in
order to arrange the payment accordingly.
At your disposal for any further information.
Best regards
Daniele Vittur
[email protected]