Gaza: Gaza has been unusually alive the past few days in anticipation of the “Freedom Flotilla” that is set to travel to Gaza in the coming days.
Massive efforts to clean the city have been launched ahead of the attempted visit and “Welcome” signs have been strewn about.
Even the flags of the 40 different countries from where the activists are from have also been hung in the city.
“We are waiting for these brave volunteers who are taking a huge risk an challenging the obstacles to help to break the siege on Gaza,” Ahmed Baher, Deputy speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council told Gulf News.
Ordinary citizens are also excited about their expected visitors, as they havent seen cargo ships coming into their port in decades.
“I’m looking forward to meet new people from all over the world and see how they stand by us and what they think about our cause,” Mohammad Omar, a 21-year-old university student told Gulf News.
“I’ve never been able to leave Gaza, so I’m very curious about other cultures and backgrounds,” he added.
As Israel has issued strict warnings that the ships will not be allowed to dock, many Gazans reserve their excitement at the possibility that the ships would be intercepted.
“I don’t think Israel will allow the ships to enter. Its shameful to stand in the way of humanitarian aid especially after they have besieged us and launched a military war against us last year,” Salman Kames, a Gazan resident said.
From the business point of view, some Gazans hope the visit will give a boost for struggling hotels. “Its been over ten years since tourists entered Gaza strip, especially after the siege in 2007,” Ahmad Ehsan, a shop owner told Gulf News.
“The visit will be helpful for business and raise our spirits,” he added.
