5/20/2011

Turkey plans second Gaza-bound flotilla despite Israeli warning

Turkish non-governmental organization IHH said here on Friday that it plans the second Gaza- bound flotilla at the end of June despite Israeli warning.
Bulent Yildirim, chairman of the Foundation for Human Rights and Freedom and Humanitarian Relief (IHH), said at a press conference that the new attempt was an international organization by 22 activist groups from around the world.
The organization again attempts to break the Israeli naval blockade of the Gaza Strip, the chairman added.
The flotilla is composed of 15 ships and about 1,500 activists from more than 100 countries.
IHH's first aid flotilla was raided by Israeli commandoes on May 31, 2010. Eight Turks and a Turkish-American were killed in the Israeli raid.
The chairman said: "We would like to remind Israel to come to its senses. You must allow this flotilla."
"If you raid again, we stay in the sea for days and become the current issue in the world," Yildirim urged Israeli officials.
Yildirim also called on Israel, which he said became isolated after the May 31 raid, to completely lift the Gaza blockade.
Turkish-Israeli relations have been at rock bottom since Israeli commandos shot eight Turkish citizens and a Turkish- American onboard the Mavi Marmara, one of six ships in the flotilla, in international waters.
Turkey recalled its ambassador to Israel and demanded an official apology and compensation from Israel in response to the attack, which was condemned by many countries.
Israel has refused to make an apology or consider compensation, saying it acted in self-defense.
The United States has warned Turkey that sending another flotilla to the Gaza Strip would not be helpful.
Yildirim criticized the U.S. government's support for Israel, which he said was isolating itself internationally due to its treatment of the Palestinians.
"This is just one step in the path towards freedom," he said. " If you don't stop this unjustness, the entire Arab Spring will fail," Yildirim said.

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