University students from Melbourne and Sydney are among at least 17 Australians participating in a Gaza-bound aid flotilla aimed at challenging Israel’s naval blockade.

University of Melbourne student Gemma O’Toole, a member of UniMelb for Palestine, and University of Sydney student Ethan Floyd are part of the international effort organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.

The mission, part of the Global Sumud initiative, is expected to involve around 100 vessels carrying humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies.

O’Toole said in an Instagram post that the flotilla aimed to break through the blockade and deliver aid.

“Our mission is to challenge Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza and to deliver much needed humanitarian aid,” she said.   

The flotilla follows previous attempts that were intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters, with participants detained.

National Students for Palestine convener Bella Beiraghi told Farrago that the scale of the mission reflected growing global support.

“It’s the biggest mission yet, people are literally putting their bodies and lives on the line,” Beiraghi said.

Organisers say the flotilla aims to deliver aid and draw international attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as student groups across Australia continue campaigns in support of those involved.

Image Source: GSF Media Team