UN experts call for Israel to guarantee safe Gaza flotilla aid delivery as hunger and attacks on aid workers rise.
GENEVA: The focus keyphrase Gaza flotilla aid gained renewed attention after United Nations experts demanded the safe passage of the Freedom Flotilla vessel, which left Italy on June 1 carrying medical supplies, food, and children’s items for Gaza.
In a joint statement issued on June 2, UN special rapporteurs Michael Fakhri and Francesca Albanese urged Israel to comply with international law and allow the Gaza flotilla aid ship to reach its destination without interference. The experts highlighted the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly among children, citing a staggering 80% rise in acute malnutrition by March 2025.
The flotilla is part of a civil society-led mission responding to the severe shortages of essential supplies in the region. The UN warned that attempts to obstruct or attack the vessel could amount to a violation of international humanitarian law.
Their statement referenced a previous flotilla targeted by a drone off Malta in May, raising fears for those currently on board. The UN team expressed concern over increasing threats to aid workers and humanitarian missions, noting that both UN and civilian convoys had been attacked in recent months.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) had issued provisional measures in March 2024, recognising a widespread risk of famine in Gaza. The experts reminded states of their legal duty to ensure unimpeded humanitarian access.
The statement strongly criticised the weaponisation of aid, specifically naming the Israeli- and US-supported Gaza Relief Foundation for allegedly using relief efforts to displace and control civilians.
As the flotilla nears Palestinian waters, the world’s eyes are on Israel’s next move.
