Turkish Delegation of the Global March for Gaza, a civilian-led international movement to break the inhumane Israeli blockade on Gaza, issued a powerful statement in Cairo, expressing their unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause despite significant challenges in realizing their planned march to the Rafah Border Crossing.

Thousands of activists from 54 countries converged in Egypt, united in their mission to end the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, halt the genocide, and deliver critical aid to the besieged region. The delegation emphasized that their goal was to “break the silence of international public opinion” and stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza through a peaceful, humanitarian-focused march to Rafah. “Our aim was to make the blockade visible and defend justice, free from any political agenda,” the statement declared.

Despite meticulous planning and extensive diplomatic efforts to ensure a peaceful and organized march, the delegation announced that “current conditions and permit processes” in Egypt have made it impossible to proceed as planned. Over 200 activists have been detained in Cairo, nearly 500 deported, and passports confiscated, with clashes reported between protesters and Egyptian authorities near Ismailia. Among those detained are prominent figures such as Irish politician Paul Murphy,  and former U.S. diplomat Hala Rharrit. The march, intended to begin on June 15 from Arish to the Rafah border, remains on hold.

The Global March to Gaza Committee is now reassessing its strategy to ensure the movement remains focused on its core objectives: ending the blockade, stopping the genocide, and amplifying Gaza’s plight. The delegation outlined new steps to maintain global momentum, including intensifying social media campaigns, strengthening diplomatic initiatives, and amplifying firsthand accounts of Gaza’s suffering to reach broader audiences. “We will never abandon our goal and humanitarian determination,” the statement affirmed.

The delegation expressed solidarity with the Egyptian people and all regional communities supporting Gaza, emphasizing a united front against polarization. “Our struggle is rooted in solidarity and humanitarian sensitivity. We will continue to be the voice of Gaza and the conscience of humanity, raising our voices from wherever we are,” they declared.

The Global March for Gaza, backed by activists worldwide, including the Soumoud Convoy of over 1,000 participants from Tunisia and Libya, remains resolute. Despite setbacks, including the convoy’s halt in Sirte, Libya, on June 13, the movement vows to keep hope alive for Gaza’s children, sick, and all those enduring the blockade’s brutality. “Our determination to break the blockade is a movement of conscience,” the statement concluded, reaffirming their commitment to justice and humanitarian aid for Palestine.

Israeli Minister of Defence Israel Katz has publicly opposed the march, but organizers continue to urge Egyptian authorities to grant permission for the peaceful protest, which seeks to establish a humanitarian corridor and expose Israeli war crimes. As the world watches, the Global March for Gaza stands firm, calling on global consciences to join their fight for a free and just Palestine. (ILKHA)