Greens/EFA Co-Presidents call for the release of MEP Benedetta Scuderi

Yesterday night, the Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid destined for Gaza, was intercepted by Israeli forces. Greens/EFA MEP  Benedetta Scuderi was aboard one the ships and has been arrested. 

Bas Eickhout, Greens/EFA Co-President, comments: 

“We condemn in the strongest possible words the interception of the Flotilla. The Israeli government will have to be held accountable. The UN had stated that any attempt to block the flotilla would constitute a grave violation of international law and humanitarian principles, and the EU should unequivocally and publicly condemn this attack on elected officials. It is unacceptable that volunteers have risked their lives to make up for the shortcoming of the EU and its Member States.

“We stand with our MEP Benedetta Scuderi and with all the volunteers of the Global Sumud Flotilla and call for her swift and unconditional release. We urge President Metsola to join our call. ”

Terry Reintke, Greens/EFA Co-President, comments: 

“The Flotilla was intercepted in international waters while carrying out a humanitarian mission to deliver aid to Gaza, which Israel is under legal obligation to provide. Volunteers carrying out a humanitarian mission should never be a military target. We call for the immediate release of MEP Benedetta Scuderi and for life-saving aid to be delivered to the civilian population in Gaza. We call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire and for EU institutions to play their part in ensuring it.”