Tuesday 25th May

Eight ships carrying 10,000 tonnes of aid, 800 activists and politicians from more than 40 countries are joining together in a historic attempt to break the illegal siege on Gaza by water.

The cargo onboard the solidarity flotilla includes building materials, medical supplies and paper for schools. One boat is carrying a complete dental surgery including drills. Crayons and chocolate are also on board for Gazan children.

Israel has vowed to prevent the ships, carrying humanitarian aid, from reaching Gaza.

John Ging, head of the main UN agency in Gaza, urged more ships carrying aid to be sent: "We believe that Israel would not stop these vessels because the sea is open, and many human rights organisations have been successful in previous similar steps, and proved that breaking the siege on Gaza is possible."

The UN published a report earlier this week which stated that three-quarters of the damage caused to Gaza's infrastructure during Israel’s 22 day military assault on Gaza has not been repaired because of the blockade.

Student Respect wishes all those onboard the flotilla well and hopes all the aid reaches Gaza safely.

Read Guardian report here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/may/25/gaza-flotilla-aid-attempt?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter