Dr. Gabor Maté Endorses the Global Sumud Flotilla

In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, renowned physician and Holocaust survivor Dr. Gabor Maté (@gabormatemd) expressed his support for the Global Sumud Flotilla, the international civilian initiative determined to break the illegal blockade on Gaza.

Dr. Maté has long spoken about the deep psychological and humanitarian toll of oppression. In his recent video, he called the blockade of Gaza “a crime against humanity” and praised the courage of ordinary civilians who are taking to the sea in defiance of silence and indifference.

“When governments fail, it falls to people of conscience to act. The flotilla is not just about aid—it is about standing for humanity.” – Dr. Gabor Maté

A Flotilla of Conscience

The Global Sumud Flotilla is a coalition of boats from over 30 countries. Switzerland’s delegation, led by Waves of Freedom (WOFA), will sail with the ships Heidi and Wilhelm Tell, carrying food, medicine, and survival essentials. But their cargo is also symbolic: hope, dignity, and the voice of civil society refusing to remain silent.

“Sumud,” the Arabic word for steadfastness, perfectly captures the mission. Each boat challenges not only the blockade but also global indifference, showing that ordinary citizens can act where institutions fail.

The Swiss Voice: WOFA

Founded in 2025 by Dr. Hicham El Ghaoui, WOFA represents the Swiss civilian delegation within the flotilla. Rooted in humanitarian values, WOFA acts independently of governments and institutions.

Their principles are clear:

• Human Rights First – every life deserves dignity, freedom, and protection.

• Nonviolent Resistance – peace, not provocation.

• Swiss Solidarity – a conscience from the heart of Europe.

Why Now

Gaza today faces catastrophic conditions:

• 2+ million people under siege

• 97% of water undrinkable

• Food, fuel, and medicine critically scarce

• UN warns Gaza is “unlivable”

Against this reality, voices like Dr. Maté’s remind us that silence helps the siege—action breaks it.

Join the Movement

The flotilla sets sail not only to deliver aid but to expose, before the eyes of the world, who blocks relief and who stands for humanity.

👉 Watch Dr. Gabor Maté’s full message here.
👉 Follow the flotilla’s journey with Waves of Freedom Switzerland.
👉 Share the message. Raise your voice.

Because doing nothing is not an option.

 

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A post shared by Ronnie Barkan (@ronron123)