Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand (PFNZ)
25 September 2025 – On World Maritime Day, the international community reflects on the vital role of our oceans in connecting people, sustaining livelihoods, and ensuring freedom of navigation. This year’s theme, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” underscores the responsibility to safeguard maritime rights for all.
As the world observes this day, the Palestine Forum of New Zealand stands in solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla as it sails toward Gaza, carrying humanitarian aid and a message of justice. Their journey is a direct affirmation of maritime principles: that the seas are a shared heritage of humanity and must never be weaponized to enforce siege or collective punishment.
For nearly two decades, the people of Gaza have been denied access to their own waters and cut off from the outside world by an illegal naval blockade. This blockade violates the very spirit of World Maritime Day, where oceans are meant to unite, not divide; to sustain life, not deepen suffering.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, through steadfastness and courage, highlights the urgent need to uphold international maritime law and humanitarian principles. On this day, we call upon governments, maritime organisations, and civil society to stand with those who risk their lives at sea to break the silence around Gaza.
The seas must be a path to freedom and solidarity. On World Maritime Day, the Palestine Forum of New Zealand affirms its support for the Global Sumud Flotilla and the right of all people to live with dignity, safety, and hope.
