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The Viva Palestina Aid convoy from UK with George Galloway and Yvonne Ridley has now crossed the border into Libya.
Please could you pass on this press statement from Richard Gearie through your e mail contacts and to any press outlets to gain as much coverage as possible so that when it reaches Cairo the Egyptian people can meet it and support it on it's way up to Rafah. The convoy should reach Cairo all being well 2nd week of March approx. The reception it has had in Morrocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Spain, France etc has been phenomenal and hopefully the Egyptians will make it as welcome as the rest of the North Africans have.
This is their statement for the press this week. It can be quoted and further statements, updates,route, ways to donate, history, can be found at www.vivapalestina.org .
Thanks folks
Press Statement
Viva Palestina! The days of action are at hand. Words are no longer enough and we shall be judged by our deeds in the days that come. This is the message from the heart of Viva Palestina. Viva Palestina is a powerful grassroots movement that expresses solidarity and support for the Palestinian people, especially those that have suffered the siege of Gaza for the last two years. When Israel launched its criminal attack on Gaza in late December 2008, the Respect Party, led by George Galloway MP, Yvonne Ridley and Salma Yaqoob, organized a huge protest outside the Israeli embassy in London. A protest movement erupted in every town and city in Britain with an unprecedented level of mobilization among the Muslim and Asian communities. George Galloway has described it as ‘a peaceful intifada gripping Britain’. As the attack ended, the protest movement was still growing. George Galloway called for the construction of a humanitarian aid convoy that would keep mobilization and engagement with the Palestinian people high. Viva Palestina is the result. Up and down Britain, people collected, donated, organized box loads of aid and arranged transport. We are all volunteers. Our only costs are a website and publicity materials. Otherwise, everything collected goes to Gaza. The drivers on the convoy, mostly young Muslims with enormous compassion in their hearts, raised money locally to pay for petrol, vehicles, breakdowns and their own living expenses. The vast majority of the vehicles will be given to the people of Gaza, including a fire engine, twenty ambulances, a fishing boat and numerous trucks and vans. In Britain in the 1930s, there was a similar solidarity movement for the people of Spain when Franco’s fascists tried to topple the Republican government and a civil war erupted. As now, the Western governments blockaded Spain and aid could only come from a political movement in defiance of the governments. Shamefully, Britain’s government has repeated the Spanish mistake in Gaza, sending naval warships to enforce the Israeli blockade that starves the Palestinians. Illegal and immoral! We intend to bust the blockade and show the British government that we will not accept this hypocrisy. The Viva Palestina convoy has been created by a combination of the Asian and Arab communities, Muslim organizations and mosques, socialists against imperialism and existing activist networks who support Palestine, such as the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Its sponsorship comes largely from local communities that have raised funds such as the Blackburn sisters that organized a ‘ladies- only’ dinner with an auction and raised £13,000. Manchester Respect raised £20,000 at a rally with George Galloway. The convoy is now over 110 vehicles strong and more than a mile and a half in length. There are more than 300 drivers and support staff on the convoy. It is travelling from London to the Rafah crossing and into Gaza. The chosen route took the convoy through France and Spain with rallies and welcomes in Bordeaux, San Sebastian and Madrid. It moved at such a pace to reach the ferry crossing at Tarifa that 20 vehicles were left behind and we re-routed them to meet the main convoy at the Algerian border. At one point, a lone van arrived in Morocco and was escorted by police to the border as a guard of honour. It crossed to Morocco where it has been met with cheering crowds on the streets and magnificent hospitality. Fund raising for Gaza continues as the convoy moves through North Africa with money being given to it as it passes. In Britain, fund raising and events to create awareness continue with international donations coming in to the website. The challenges facing the convoy are huge. To get so many vehicles over 7,000 kilometres to Gaza in three weeks is a monumental task, even from a logistical point of view. There are mechanical failures, extreme tiredness for drivers asked to keep going for 20 hours a day. Then, there are the political problems of borders and security in each country. The Morocco-Algeria border has been sealed for 15 years and the governments are mutually hostile. The convoy organizers entered high level diplomatic negotiations to enable passage, as is the case with Libya. The response has been astonishingly good with the Morocco-Algeria border opened to let the convoy through with brass bands playing and a celebratory atmosphere. The Algerian government has accommodated the convoy with shelter, hospitality and even free petrol to aid progress. There are people on the streets throwing sweets at the convoy as it passes. Some unfortunate enough to be delayed in the UK sped through Europe to the tip of Italy and crossed to Tunis late last week. The brothers were met with a welcoming committee and the handshake of the prime minister himself. They await the arrival of the convoy. The people of North Africa, indeed the world, understand and support the Palestinian people. They can see the dishonesty and murderous nature of the Israeli attack and blockade. The problem is to mobilize that opinion into practical support for Gaza. We are trying to do this, to give Palestinians hope that their struggle is ours and that they will find support and aid. We are also sending a strong political message to the British and other governments that have abandoned the Palestinians. We will stop these governments from allowing the continued murder and starvation of a people. To deliver this message and to break the blockade requires a storm to be gathered in the deserts of North Africa. It requires the mobilization of popular opinion in the Middle East and in Europe. At this moment, we are still negotiating with the Egyptian government for permission to cross Egypt and enter Gaza at the Rafah crossing. The convoy will be considerably larger as it reaches Egypt and we are hopeful that the government will feel able to let us through. The alternative will be a huge international convoy parked at the Rafah crossing with press and TV in attendance while the support movement mobilizes to pile pressure on their governments. The Egyptian government has opened the Rafah crossing for three days to allow aid in and we remain hopeful. We aim to break this blockade and shame the governments that do not lift a finger to support the Palestinians. It may mean that we attempt a similar convoy again. We are also sending shipping containers full of aid in the next few months. Viva Palestina is a genuine mass movement of support and there are many initiatives that are possible. What can you do? You can raise money for the Palestinians. We have clothing, toys, shoe-boxes of gifts from children for children, electricity generators, fire extinguishers, water filtration equipment, tents, blankets, medical equipment and supplies. We have teams arriving in Egypt to purchase medicine and food so raise funds will directly help us get aid into Gaza. You can send money and donations or you can meet the convoy as it crosses North Africa. You can donate to the aid convoy online at the Viva Palestina website. You can email us to volunteer to help with the fundraising activities, liaison with governments, hospitality for the convoy, press coverage for the convoy and there are a hundred other activities that involve volunteers. Above all, we want to spread the word and spread the support movement for Palestine into every country and every town. This movement and this convoy have been built by people like you and me who go to their families, friends and contacts in each area and raise support. Please help us turn the tide and give Palestine and our people hope that something better is possible.
After a smooth crossing of the borders into Libya, the convoy was overwhelmed by the large number of people waiting to greet and welcome them.
Trade union officials, Palestinian representatives, thousands of ordinary Libyans showed up and waited from the early hours to see their heroes.
According to the Libyan press, the Libyan Government has prepared a program full of activities for the convoy throughout its journey across the country lasting 5 days (see below).
I am told by Rabah, that people are out on the streets of every city they pass showing their love, affection and appreciation of this mammoth task.
As I am writing, the convoy was just arriving in the city of Az Zawiyah about 40 km west of Tripoli. I can hear the brass band of the scouts playing a welcoming tune.
A huge tent has been set up which is a traditional Libyan welcome for VIP guests. The convoy will have lunch and then settle down after yet another tiring journey.
5 days of hospitality in Libya
According to the newspaper Libya Elyoum, the program for the Gaza convoy is as follows:
Saturday29-02-09 Welcome and reception at border point of Ras Ajdir Head for the Scout' training centre in Joddaim.
Sunday 01-03-09 Leave for public rally in centre of Tripoli Here a local convoy will be joining ours. Press conference Short stop at Khoms Rally at Masrata and the inauguration of GAZA STREET.
Monday 02-03-09 Leave Masrata in the morning Pass through Surt and Guardabia Stop at Ras Lanouf for the night
Tuesday 03-03-09 Leave then stop at Akila Rest at Barika for lunch Public rally at Ajdabia next to Sport City Arrival at Bengazi-Accomodation at the Touristic Village
Wednesday 04-03-09 Press conference Local convoy joins ours Rally and rest at the city of Marj Rally at Al Bayda city and stop for the night
Thursday 05-03-09 Head for the town of Derna via Shahat Soussa Pulic rally at Derna Leave for the city of Tobruk Public rally at Tobruk and overnight stay
Friday 06-03-09 Leave for the area of Amsaada Ceremony and departure of convoy
I wonder if Egypt will lay out the red carpet? and if they don't it's shameful Posts: 3416 | Registered: Oct 2007
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They came in their thousands in the Green Public square of Tripoli attending a big rally to welcome the Viva Palestina humanitarian Gaza convoy. This is the first of many planned in Libya.
Ambassadors, dignitaries, representatives from the Gadaffi Foundation as well as the children of Palestine spoke of the horrors and the tragedy of Gaza.
Gift bags containing caps, T-Shirts, books were given to members of the convoy as a gesture of thanks and admiration for their efforts to get the aid to the destitute people of Gaza.
It was announced at the rally, to the cheers of all the people and to the relief of our convoy members, that Egypt has agreed to let the convoy through to Gaza. It will be one less matter to worry about and they need now only concentrate on the noble goal they set out to achieve when their vehicles rolled from the UK on the 14th February.
Up to 100 Libyan trucks are joining the convoy starting with the Tripoli contingent today - including ambulances and a fire engine. The Gaddafi International Charity and Development Foundation (GICDF) is sending a considerable quantity of medical aid.
After drinks and sandwiches, they headed for the city of Misrata passing with possibly a stop in Khums.
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Museum of Science and Industry 10am, Tuesday 3rd March 2009 Liverpool Road, Manchester M3.
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) and the Zionist Federation of Britain have organized an ‘exhibition’ on the subject of Israeli science on Tuesday, 3rd March at MOSI. This will showcase the work of seven Israeli universities and particularly their research into weapons and military support. It is a public relations campaign for the Israeli military machine.
We have already seen enough of this machine in action in Gaza. 400 children have been killed, every medical facility damaged and whole areas of Gaza bulldozed. White phosphorous shells have been used in built up areas and numerous other war crimes committed. We are opposed to exhibiting such war crimes as science.
We believe this event should be cancelled and the sponsorship paid to Palestinian aid agencies in Gaza. Viva Palestina in Manchester is calling a protest at the exhibition at which we will show the real face of Israeli science. We urge as many as possible to join this protest and stop the advertisement for Israeli aggression.
Greater Manchester Viva Palestina weekly meeting Monday, 7.30pm Saffron Restaurant Cheetham Hill Road, M8 8PY.
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The convoy is in Misrata. The hospitality of the Libyan people, government and the Gaddafi Foundation has left the convoy members in tears.
After the the public rally in Tripoli today, they set off with an additional 60 Libyan vehicles loaded with humanitarean aid and medecine towards the coastal town of Misrata. They were met with jubilant ordinary Libyans who hold Palestine and Gaza close to their hearts.
The organisers and the Gaddafi Foundation are ensuring the smooth and safe passage of the convoy through Libya by providing everything the convoy needs - from free fuel to accomodation and repairs, etc.
This evening, our drivers and their passengers were being driven in coaches to the newly built and inaugurated GAZA VILLAGE on the outskirt of Misrata. It is a tribute to the memory of the fallen martyrs of Gaza and a message to the children of Palestine from a long standing staunch ally of their just cause.
According to Libyan TV News this evening, the convoy could reach 300 vehicles by the time it reaches the border. I have just seen the size of some of the HGV's going to Gaza lined up with ours. It is an awsome sight, a mammoth task only made possible by some legendary men and women.
In one of the speeches today in Tripoli, one of the convoy leaders said to the crowd that this convoy was not just a Viva Palestina, British, Islamic, Christian, Arab and European but it was first and foremost humanitarian - where all humanity in all its diverse cultures, languages and religions contributed to it.
One of our convoy members said to the Arabic newspaper Libya Elyoum today "This is the best welcome we received. What is different this time is that the authorities did not try to stop the people mingling and getting close to us, nothing was orchestrated, it was natural and spontaneous."
Tomorrow is a big day as Libya celebrates the creation of the Republic (Jamahiria).The convoy will head for SIRT where they will savour Libyan hospitality once again.
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I wish we was still in Egypt to witness them driving through Cairo. We would be near the street cheering them on Posts: 409 | From: Betelgeuse | Registered: Oct 2005
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'They just would not let us leave without us sharing a banquet lunch with them,' one of our drivers said about the generous and kind people of Misrata.
In the Amman Family Tourist village by the sea, our convoy enjoyed a well deserved break in a 5* setting of chalets and restaurants.
'These people are the most beautifull people we have encountered, they came in their droves from all over Misrata to see us and savour the moment,' another driver said.
It was not until around 4.00pm our time that they set off for RAS LANOUF, their next stop for the night passing through the city of SIRT.
They all seem in high spirits. It is obvious that Libya has provided them with the facilities to recuperate and recharge before pushing on towards Gaza.
George, who is with the convoy, said to Libya Elyoum newspaper, that it is thanks to the Gaddafi Foundation and its head Seyf El-Islam Gaddafi, that this convoy is enjoying a smooth crossing of Libya, and that he was keen to establish a partnership with this foundation to guarantee the success of the convoy. He also said that 'we say little and achieve much'
George said that theLlibyan contingent of about 100 trucks 'knows the road to Gaza' because they are better than any map in the world in helping our drivers get to their ultimate destination safely.
He goes on to add that a number of British and Egyptian personalities are expected to join the convoy in Egypt including members of parliament and film stars.
As I am writing,they are now stopping KHAZZAN ALKARDABIA where a festive 'gala dinner' awaits them. They will then set off for Ras Lanouf for their overnight stay.
I promised to write a daily log of my time on the Viva Palestina convoy but my attempts to keep you updated with events have been thwarted ever since we reached North Africa.
There is a very clear agenda by some to keep Gaza out of the news and I am dismayed by the Zionist influence brought to bear in the Maghreb.
First there is the logisitical nightmare of trying to find wifi on the move, or an internet cafe during late night stopovers.
Secondly, internet cafes are few and far between on the open roads and we've seen a lot of them since we entered Morocco and Algeria - where both governments seemed keen to keep us out of the main towns and cities.
Finally, all attempts to use the internet were hampered by the less than tolerant Tunisian authorities - but more of them later.
I am now in Libya where our presence is being celebrated in grandstyle by both the authorities and the people, what a refreshing change.
And so I am able to send you this email after driving from the outskirts of Tripoli to the coastal town of Misratah.
Despite being thousands of miles away from home, good news travels fast and so I was delighted to learn Interpal, the UK registered charity that provides humanitarian aid to Gaza, has for the 3rd time been cleared by the UK Charity Commission of malicious allegations made by the US and Israeli governments.
Sadly the bank Lloyds TSB continues to act in line with US and Israeli policy by cutting off banking facilities to Interpal.
But, back to the good news, if you check out the Charity Commission report you will discover the following points:-
* Interpal is cleared of any bias in its work and aid delivery * Interpal is cleared of the accusation of carrying out non-charitable work * Interpal’s trustees are cleared of any links to terrorist organisations or activities * Interpal’s charitable partners are free from any allegations made against them by the BBC Panorama programme and the Israeli Government.
More importantly:-
* The Charity Commission rejects all allegations made and evidence brought against Interpal by the BBC Panorama programme and The Israeli Government * The American administration failed for the second time to provide the Charity Commission with any credible evidence against Interpal * Interpal is free to continue its charitable work on behalf of needy Palestinians
The news was greeted with joy by those who know of Interpal's commitment to Gaza and Palestine as a whole and, as a result, convoy drivers added their own support last night.
Irishman John Hurson from Tyrone said he would be donating his huge Daf truck to interpal along with all the contents (and yes, it has been fixed now and as good as new).
Birmingham councillor Mohamed Ishtiaq said he and his crew would do the same with their vehicles.
So, if you want to show your support to the people of Gaza and slap the Zionists in the face at the same time donate your money to Interpal. Go to their website www.interpal.org - go on, do it now.
Editors Note: The Viva Palestina convoy are still taking donations via the website so you now have a choice about who to donate to - or better still donate to both. We hope to be working closely with our long-standing friends at Interpal in the future.
* British journalist Yvonne Ridley and award-winning film-maker Hassan al Banna Ghani are on the Viva Palestina convoy making a documentary about the journey from London to Gaza. Her website is www.yvonneridley.org and you can follow her updates by Twitter or20Facebook
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Hermoine, thank you for keeping us updated with this important staff Posts: 4446 | From: Egyptian in Sydney | Registered: Mar 2005
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---------------------------------- Convoy Update 21.30 (GMT) Tuesday 3rd March 2009
CLOSING IN ON TUBRUK
Having opted for the short cut through the desert road, the convoy decided to split into two. Many breakdowns have been reported as well as a minor accident with no casualties to report.
Few minutes ago, I spoke to the deputy leader of the convoy who confirm that due to the nature of the terrain and the area, it was necessary to have two convoys, one following the other one. The slower convoy will ensure that the necessary repairs are carried out and no one is left behind whilst the first one pushes on towards Tubruk.
It is estimated that the first contingent will reach Tubruk this evening. The second contingent is about 100-150 km away and they may stop for the night and join the rest tomorrow.
Once in Tubruk, it is planned that the crossing into Egypt will take place on Thursday morning. If the processing of the convoy by the Libyan and Egyptian border control is a smooth one, then they may even start crossing tomorrow afternoon. The Convoy leaders would like to thank the Egyptian government for their help in this matter.
Once in Egypt, the deputy leader confirms that they will not go to Cairo. They will bypass the capital and the route may be subject to last minute changes depending on various factors.
Until both convoys get to Tubruk, the information we are getting remains limited. We will update as soon as proper communication is re-established.
Wonder what route they will take then if not Cairo Maybe Alex-Port Said-Suez-Sinai? that direction...
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quote:Originally posted by Hermione Heliotrope.: Shukran FP
Wonder what route they will take then if not Cairo Maybe Alex-Port Said-Suez-Sinai? that direction...
God bless you all for your dedication. How can one contribute to the convoy when it gets into Alex in Egypt (assuming it will). It will not be possible to contribute online, so how can one contribute actual items or cash. Is somebody (e.g. doctors synidcate) organising a collection centre. Please advise. Thanks.
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I am receiving the news feeds on facebook and I saw the news that it is not going through Cairo. I my first thought was for you HH. Will you manage to travel to see it?
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quote:Originally posted by Hermione Heliotrope.: Shukran FP
Wonder what route they will take then if not Cairo Maybe Alex-Port Said-Suez-Sinai? that direction...
God bless you all for your dedication. How can one contribute to the convoy when it gets into Alex in Egypt (assuming it will). It will not be possible to contribute online, so how can one contribute actual items or cash. Is somebody (e.g. doctors synidcate) organising a collection centre. Please advise. Thanks.
Ramsis
e mail Richard at
GEARIE@aol.com
flag as priority
He will let you know what to do
I'm gutted YAH but they might still change their mind because the route hasn't been finalised yet.
If it goes Alex along the North Coast to Suez, and we can have an approx time it will hit the Peace Bridge or the Ahmed Hamdi, as it turns off to Arish, then we will combine it into a trip to our place in Sinai. It's a long trip just to turn back to Cairo I am hoping that we can get good ETA's so we can make it possible.
I am so hoping we can be there to see them pass and cheer them on to Gaza. It's a fabulous gesture and we should support if we can.
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This is the latest on the route through Egypt.
If there are any changes I will update you up as far as early Saturday morning, then we will have to leave to join it at the Peace Bridge, hopefully nothing will change by then.
Thursday: 05-03-09 -Stop at SALUM - Rest-Dinner- Press conference - 4 pm Leave for MATRUH- Evening meal- Overnight Stay
Friday: 06-03-09 -9am Leave for ALAMEIN -12pm Dinner - -Stop for special Jumaa (Friday prayers) -3pm RAFED MIAMI- Light lunch -8pm JAMSSA -10PM The Arab Contractors Village -Dinner and overnight stay
Saturday 07-03-09 -10 am Short press conference -2 PM -Rest at EAST AL SALAM BRIDGE- Dinner -4 PM-Set off for EL ARICH -7 PM Dinner and overnight stay
Sunday 08-03-09 -10am Public Rally at EL ARICH -11 am head for RAFAH CROSSING -12 am deliver aid
YAH if all goes according to plan we will get pics of it crossing the Peace Bridge etc and will post them when we get back from Sinai.
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Convoy Update 19.30 (GMT) Wednesday 4rd March 2009
TRAGEDY SO NEAR TO THE END
This afternoon, a Libyan female journalist on her way to join our convoy, was involved, along with her colleague and a photographer in a road traffic accident, which unfortunately resulted in her death. Her two colleagues were also injured ain the crash, but the extent of their injuries is (at the time of writing) still unknown.
The leader of the Manchester contingent Talat Ali and Rabah Abdulramuz would like, on behalf of the Viva Palestina British convoy, to pass on their condolences and prayers to the families of the young lady and a speedy recovery for the injured.
They would like to reassure the families back home that all of the British members are safe. However, understandably the mood is very sombre and a Janaza (funeral ceremony) prayer has been organised by the convoy members this evening.
The Convoy are now about 20km from the border with Egypt. The Egyptian government has taken charge of the arrangements to ensure a smooth and comfortable crossing of Egypt by Viva Palestina starting tomorrow morning.
An official delegate from The National Party is in the border area preparing the welcome. He has informed the leaders of the route they will be taking and of the program of events awaiting them.
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You know, I was thinking this...how dangerous these roads they are taking are..I think many reading of their journey don't realise that. Prayers out to the journalist and the convoy....please post pics HH, that would be so nice to see.
-------------------- رِحْلِة الأَلْف مِيل تَبْدَأ بِخَطْوَة Posts: 385 | From: In my hayati's heart and thoughts | Registered: Apr 2008
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My husband just spoke with a Libyan rep who is staying with the group at the San Giovani Resort in Marsa Matruh. He said they will leave in the morning and stop at Marina for Friday Prayer and lunch. He didn't know which gate. They will then proceed down to Cairo according to him. If you want the number for the Resort for more info (San Giovani)it is 046 4947600.
Can't wait till tomorrow! This will be a sight to see!
Laura
Posts: 3291 | From: I DO believe in Karma! | Registered: Apr 2002
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My husband just spoke with a Libyan rep who is staying with the group at the San Giovani Resort in Marsa Matruh. He said they will leave in the morning and stop at Marina for Friday Prayer and lunch. He didn't know which gate. They will then proceed down to Cairo according to him. If you want the number for the Resort for more info (San Giovani)it is 046 4947600.
Can't wait till tomorrow! This will be a sight to see!
Laura
Laura!!
are they coming to Cairo then?
Have they changed the route again Posts: 3416 | Registered: Oct 2007
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The convoy was over 3 miles long and contained about 220 vehicles. So it was an awesome sight when finally, at about 1.00pm local time, the first vehicles rolled into Egypt, where they were met at the borders by officials and a jubilant crowd.
The Egyptians organised the convoy into smaller groups and set off towards the town of SALUM, their first stop. The convoy was handled with military precision by the army and the police. I am told and everyone was relieved at the speed of the crossing.
In Salum they were met by children, who handed them flowers, and they were warmly welcomed by the people. Then they were taken to a huge tent where a press conference was held and a reception ceremony took place.
Lunch was on the menu, before being whisked away to continue their journey towards the beautiful coastal town of MATRUH.
A lavish reception awaits them in this picturesque part of Egypt where they are expected to enjoy the sea breeze after experiencing the beauty and quietness of the desert.
Overall, a good start to the final leg of the journey. Gaza is getting ever so close and the mission is close to being accomplished.
The Gaddafi Foundation for Charity and Development sent a message to Viva Palestina expressing its sorrow and offering its condolences for the family of the deceased Journalist Souad Abu Shiba and wish a quick recovery for her colleagues Ibrahim Hania, and the photographer Salah Nejm after the tragic car accident which occurred yesterday.
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I've e mailed Richard to double check and hopefully he will get back to me soon and I can post a definite route here. We were going to set off really early tomorrow for Suez, but this is great news Posts: 3416 | Registered: Oct 2007
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I knew that something terrible would happen in the Middle East before Bush left office. I naively thought this would involve Iran. When the bombing began, and with such force, I saw that indeed this was the plan and that Gaza was being used as bait to secure this. I responded with a sense of urgency, feeling desperately for the people who were being subjected to such terror, who were being sacrificed for the Israeli-American-European agenda. I could not sleep or eat.
The only thing that sustained me was the intelligent diplomatic initiatives taking place between Iran, Syria, Lebanon and other states.
When I heard Dr Mads Gilbert of Shifa Hospital describe how the American-made DIME bombs were amputating children’s limbs and destroying their DNA in the process, my sense of utter frustration at not being able to do anything was driving me to total despair faced with the impotency of the UN Security Council which had not even begun to consider that one of its member states was committing war crimes. The Secretary General had it within his power to instruct the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to immediately begin investigations on the basis that Israel was posing a threat to international peace and security by committing war crimes but this was not even being mentioned in that flurry of meetings.
Why? It was so apparent. What we were seeing are acts of genocide. This is why I am going to Gaza...and I want to do whatever I can to help those people who have suffered so much. Most especially, I want to be with the children to let them know we care and for them to feel that there is more to the world than the hell- hole that Gaza has become. From this experience I am sure much good will come.
I know, from all the calls I have been receiving from people who want to give aid, that this is how we all feel. Viva Palestina has become a conduit for these feelings. It has brought so many people together and given them the space to let the people of Gaza know that the convoy brings from Britain, not only aid, but a great deal of love and respect for how they have endured this onslaught.
I also know that all the people who have supported this convoy will be with us in spirit every inch of the way so that when we meet the people of Gaza, all these people will be there too so widening the circle which will forever be open. Never again will fences and walls separate us from you, people of Gaza, people of Palestine, you are no longer alone.
Mary Edwards, London.
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For anyone who is possibly planning to meet the convoy the story so far.
The original route may be changed to pass through Cairo. Laura is meeting the convoy in an hour's time hopefully after Jummah prayers and will speak to the drivers and hopefully George Galloway to find out for def the route.
ps little bird told me that GG has had his first fight!! and guess who with?!! Posts: 3416 | Registered: Oct 2007
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I've just spoken to Laura who went to meet the Convoy in Alex.
She was very emotional on the phone and spoke of the most amazing 4 hours of her life talking to the drivers, especially the 150 Libyan truck drivers who joined the convoy. She will I am sure write something here for you all on it once she recovers.
For anyone who wants to go, the route is the one further up the page and does not include Cairo!
If you want to donate, the trucks are still taking donations and are planning to buy cement and other heavy building supplies in Arish before crossing into Gaza. You can donate at www.vivapalestina.org too.
Can't wait to see it myself now.
Off to finish our packing
""a Warning needed before putting link with such images "" A little reminder why they are doing it
If you want to donate, the trucks are still taking donations and are planning to buy cement and other heavy building supplies in Arish before crossing into Gaza. You can donate at www.vivapalestina.org too.
I called them last night in Alex to tell them to donate, and was surprised they didn't have a clue what I was talking about! To add insult to injury they said even if they could find out how to get to the convoy they still wouldn't donate because of potential problems with the government. They said they didn't want to have anything to do with it lest they're percieved as supporting Hamas, which they aren't btw. I was extremely disapointed how could people be so complacent, when there are so much people in dire need for help in Gaza. I'm ashamed of them Posts: 444 | Registered: Apr 2004
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George Galloway also said that the organisers at the stops are taking any donations.
The problem here is everyone is an expert at talking about the Israeli's, and the Palestinians BUT they don't like to actually do anything about it if it involves moving from their computers or coffee shops
It is pathetic really. I share your frustration.
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quote:Originally posted by Hermione Heliotrope.: Sorry Ramsis I'm confused?? do you mean the Egyptian doctors? ....... It is pathetic really. I share your frustration.
sorry for the confusion, I was so pre-occupied and distressed by the situation that I assumed people are able to read my mind!! I was actually refering to my acquaintances in Alex.
You're absolutely right, it is really pathetic.
I'll find another way for donating. Thanks for the advice.
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The Scottish Aid Convoy one of the two convoys from UK arrives in Nueweba to meet up with the Souad Viva Palestina Convoy at Rafah tomorrow.
Scottish Medical Aid Convoy leave Glasgow
20/02/2009 The convoy will pass George Sq. and head down towards London . The Scottish aid convoy will be joined by volunteers and convoys from Lancashire and West Yorkshire . From London the convoy will continue on its' epic journey - of over 3000 miles across mainland Europe . The Scottish aid convoy is expected to link up with George Galloway's convoy "Viva Palestina" at the Rafah/Gaza crossing. The convoy is leaving under the banner of “Justice for Palestine”.
Akhtar Khan said “This task had originally started simply because of the fact that the Scottish people could not stand back and watch innocent women and children being massacred and suffer excruciating pain from severe injuries before and especially now in the aftermath of this recent war in Gaza. This Scottish humanitarian aid mission was orchestrated mainly from Glasgow, and very quickly it expanded far and wide. The aid convoy consists mainly of urgently needed medical supplies. The project started sometime before the recent onslaught in Gaza (on 27th Dec. 2008), but after the Israeli Blitz the humanitarian cause gathered unprecedented momentum.”
“Volunteers and professionals from a myriad of different backgrounds offered their time, skills and support. One evening recently, there were upto fifty volunteers sorting out, packaging/re-packaging the medical aid into boxes and loading them into the 7.5ton trucks. Leading heart surgeons and local pharmacists working alongside students and young people, sorting out medicines, is truly representative of the caring and hardworking nature of Scottish people.”
Rizi Mohammed, Scottish Medical Aid to Gaza Co-ordinator comments, “Bonnie Scotland shines brightly again as the brightest beacon of hope through this collective effort, on an international level, as a true caring nation. Although unprecedented, generosity of this magnitude could only have come from people who are blessed with a tender heart and from a caring, multi-cultural, multi-faith community. This vital, life-saving medical aid convoy will travel across Europe and the Middle East , with the journey taking around 14-18 days. We are truly indebted from the depths of our hearts, to the very decent caring people of Scotland .”
Posts: 3416 | Registered: Oct 2007
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After a long rest at Matruh, the Viva Palestina convoy started the day late by heading east. Apparently, some were so exhausted that they slept on till late morning.
Divided into groups to make the drive and escort manageable, they were planning to stop for Friday prayers along the way. Some groups were delayed and could not make it.
They are driving to JEMSA (GEMSA) on the coast, their next location for the night. I am told that it is looking like midnight by the time the last vehicle reaches the coastal town. A reception and dinner is being organised by the local authorities.
On that note, Akhbar Elyom newspaper reported today that the General Secretariat of the National Party is overseeing the reception and monitoring the progress of the convoy across various provinces. Working groups have been set up to ensure the various services are provided to the convoy such as accommodation, food and fuel. Young guides and helpers will be on hand to assist convoy members when they stop in their cities.
According to AlJazeera.net today, a source from the convoy confirmed that the name of the convoy has been changed to 'SOUAD VIVA PALESTINA' as a sign of respect and commemoration for the Libyan journalist Souad Abu Shiba after her tragic death whilst travelling to cover the convoy story.
Some extra good news arrived today from Egypt where the SCOTISH MEDICAL AID CONVOY arrived this morning in the Red Sea port of Nuweiba. They will be heading north through the Sinai.
The 'Souad Viva Palestina' convoy is expected to set off in the morning for the East El Salam Bridge where they will stop for lunch, then a long drive will follow for the town of El Arich where a rally is expected to take place from 7.00pm.
Posts: 3416 | Registered: Oct 2007
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The reception was at Sidi Abbel Rahman. Three huge bedouin style tents had been erected for the event.
The Mayor of Alex, several Generals, Reps from the National Party and around 1000 people were there to greet them.
The strange thing was, I was the ONLY woman there (not from the Viva Palestina group). I couldn't believe this, was very wierd!
The convoy began to arrive around 1pm, but they did not all come at once. I found out later that some had stayed longer in Marsa Matruh, and then skipped this reception altogether, and also that the Egyptian Government had not allowed them to travel in one long convoy once in Egypt. They had to travel in groups of 20 vehicles or less. Whether this was for security reason, or something else, I don't know.
Security was very tight, dogs brought in, metal detectors to go through, and the highway from MM30 to 170 had police stationed EVERY 50 feet! I am not kidding!
Back to the Viva Palestina group. What an awesome group! They were a diverse group, yet dominated by young arabic males.
As they were arriving in groups around every half hour (and then served a box lunch catered by Abu Shakr) it made it easy to make the rounds of the tables and speak a little with most of them.
They told about all the generousity they had received throughout their now 3 week journey, free gas at every place they stopped for refills, lodging provided free, mainly hostels, but also some nice hotels and resorts.
Most were not sure about routes, or what was happening in the news, and repeatedly asked us if we knew if the border at Rafah was now open.
One thing I did not know was, along with the aid they were delivering, they were also leaving ALL vehicles, and then flying back home. Not sure about the 100 plus HUGE semi trucks that were now included in the convoy from Libya.
And talk about a "small world"! One woman in the group began telling us how she was Palestinian, and a couple minutes into the chat, discovered she was a distant cousin of my husbands! So then the mobile had to come out and her mom called and a chat insued with her mom and my husband. lol
The day ended for us leaving around 5:30 as the last of the convoy members did, they still had a long journey ahead of them to reach Jamasah, and some wanted to stop at Carrefour! lol Seems there was no place for them to exchange money, buy some sim cards etc, since they had entered Egypt, and this was the place they wanted to go, to do this.
We then traveled near Alex, ahead of them, to stop and cheer them on, wave our Palestinian flag, and bid them a safe journey to Rafah.
God be with them all, and Bless them for all they have done.
Laura
Posts: 3291 | From: I DO believe in Karma! | Registered: Apr 2002
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For days now, several other aid delegations have been sitting at the Rafah border, trying to get entry into Gaza. Egypt refuses. Why? Because Egypt has to TAKE PERMISSION from Israel before anyone or anything can enter that crossing
I hate to say or even think it, but I truly believe that the Viva Palestinia convoy will be denied entry just as all others have. Even if they by some miracle are allowed to enter, most of what they have taken there will be confiscated by Israel, this I am SURE of!
What they will do at that point, I do not know, as those we talked to, were adamant that the one thing they were going to take away from this experience, was the action of being able to "place their hand on the soil of Gaza".
Tomorrow will tell.
Posts: 3291 | From: I DO believe in Karma! | Registered: Apr 2002
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posted
Just another side note concerning this issue. Has anyone seen ANYTHING in any Egyptian media concerning this or any publicity for Viva Palestinia?
I have searched high and low and can't find a single article or any coverage from them.
My husband has been haggling with Dream Television people since yesterday to give some coverage of this. They keep saying they don't know anything about it and have seen nothing in the news about them. Even when he keeps referring them to their website, telling them what it's about, etc.
INTERESTING!
Posts: 3291 | From: I DO believe in Karma! | Registered: Apr 2002
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quote:Originally posted by Laura: They keep saying they don't know anything about it and have seen nothing in the news about them.
This is exactly the response I've received when I called my acquaintances in Egypt. They simply knew nothing, absolutely nothing about it!!! Disgraceful indeed
Posts: 444 | Registered: Apr 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Laura: I hate to say or even think it, but I truly believe that the Viva Palestinia convoy will be denied entry just as all others have. Even if they by some miracle are allowed to enter, most of what they have taken there will be confiscated by Israel, this I am SURE of!
Not with George Gallaway on board. This man is amazing and he gets things done. With god's grace it will go, just let us hope and pray. Thanks Laura and HH, and please keep us posted. I get my info about the convoy from here, not from the news!!
Posts: 444 | Registered: Apr 2004
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