As a part of the blockade on the Gaza Strip, the Israeli Navy prevents the Gaza fisherman from working for their livelihood and from providing food to the population.

On Monday (16.6.08), 10 fishing boats went out to sea to protest, using their last fuel. Gush Shalom and dozens of activists from other organizations decided to organize a simultaneous Israeli action and hired a large vessel at the Herzliya marina.

But when dozens of peace activists from various organizations arrived at the boat, the captain refused to allow the Gush flag, showing the colors of Israel and Palestine, on board.

After a loud altercation, and after the captain called the police, the demonstration took place on land. Between the demonstrators in Gaza and Herzliya, contact by telephone was maintained.

The Gaza human rights activist, Dr. Eyad al-Sarag, conveyed his gratitude to the Israeli protesters and expressed his hope for a cease-fire that would put an end to the suffering of Palestinians and Israelis and allow progress towards peace.