Irish Novelist Naoise Dolan Joins Global Flotilla to Gaza

Irish novelist Naoise Dolan has announced her participation in the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aims to break the ongoing siege of Gaza. Dolan, renowned for her works such as Exciting Times (2020) and The Happy Couple (2023), has been a prominent advocate for Palestinian rights since the escalation of violence in Gaza nearly two years ago.

Dolan’s decision to join this significant humanitarian initiative underscores her commitment to raising awareness about the situation in Gaza. She has consistently criticized the inaction of Western governments, including that of Ireland, regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In a recorded statement shared on her Instagram account, Dolan expressed her motivations for participating in the flotilla.

Advocacy Through Action

In her statement, Dolan conveyed the urgency and gravity of the situation: “We’re sailing to Gaza to bring provisions to the people Israel is committing genocide against.” The Global Sumud Flotilla, which includes participants from 44 countries, aims to create a humanitarian corridor for those affected by the blockade. She emphasized her solidarity with the Palestinian people, stating, “I’m scared, of course, but Palestinians face far worse dangers every single day of the genocide and they never had the choice that I do.”

Dolan’s remarks highlighted her perception of governmental complicity, declaring, “Our own government is complicit in the genocide. They refuse to stop aiding and abetting Israel because they are cowards.” Her passionate call for action seeks not only to challenge governmental policies but also to inspire public anger over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.

The flotilla is set to depart from Barcelona on August 31, 2025, with additional launches from Tunis and Sicily on September 4. The initiative has garnered support from various activists, including Swedish climate advocate Greta Thunberg and Brazilian socioenvironmentalist Thiago Ávila, both of whom have previously faced risks while advocating for Palestinian rights.

Historical Context of Flotillas

The Global Sumud Flotilla follows a long history of civilian attempts to challenge the blockade on Gaza. Since 2010, all flotillas attempting to reach Gaza have been intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters. Notably, the Mavi Marmara incident in 2010 resulted in the deaths of ten activists and numerous injuries when Israeli commandos raided the ship, which was part of a larger flotilla.

As Dolan embarks on this journey, her participation not only underscores her commitment to advocacy but also raises awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. With the backing of a diverse coalition of activists and the international community, the flotilla aims to shed light on the urgent need for humanitarian aid and intervention in the region.

Dolan’s call for action resonates as she urges others to stand in solidarity with Palestinians, stating, “We lose our own humanity if we don’t stand with them.” The upcoming flotilla represents a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for justice and humanitarian support for the Palestinian people.