ALBAWABA - In order to overcome the current Israeli embargo and provide vital humanitarian relief, a large coalition of activists, human rights groups, and labor unions from more than 32 countries has unveiled a daring plan: a coordinated foot march into the Gaza Strip.
The first-of-its-kind Global March to Gaza campaign marks a dramatic uptick in worldwide civil society's reaction to the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Both Arab and non-Arab countries are taking part in the march, which is being organized by the International Coalition Against Israeli Occupation. The effort is civilian-led, nonviolent, and fully self-funded, according to its organizers. Over 10,000 people have already registered, and planning teams have been formed in several locations to handle logistics, transport, and language.
In order to exert pressure on the government to permit the entrance of humanitarian convoys that have been barred for months, the goal is to be in Cairo by June 12 and then travel to Al-Arish before continuing on foot toward the Rafah border, where participants would pitch up camp. Currently, more than 3,000 trucks that are transporting food, medication, and other necessities are stuck at the border.
The march's organizers claim that it is a direct challenge to global apathy as well as a call to action against the blockade. They want to bring attention to what they characterize as systemic famine and genocide in Gaza and to resurrect the historical tradition of worldwide solidarity. The endeavor comes at a time when Israeli policy is coming under more international scrutiny and when discontent with the present assistance limits is rising.
