Irish activist on board says convoy aims to focus minds on man-made famine impacting the Palestinians

THE Global Sumud is the latest freedom flotilla trying to make its way into Gaza with vital supplies.

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Organisers aim to “break Israel's illegal siege on Gaza" and open a humanitarian corridor to the Palestinian people.

One of those on board is Irish activist and actor TADHG HICKEY, an outspoken opponent of Israel's brutal war on Gaza.

The Corkonian felt he had to take action, so he left his partner and newborn daughter behind to go on the risky mission.

Tadhg, 42, said: “We are doing the bare minimum, playing our tiny part. I had to act out of despair and grief over what is happening.

“As an Irish person, if you cannot see yourself in the dehumanisation and forced starvation ongoing, are you really Irish at all?”

Here he explains why he’s there and what it’s like as part of the crew.

WE'RE on our way to Tunis, where we will join up with other boats and delegations from all over the world.

Then we all leave together in a beautiful convoy. There are 44 delegations - and a big Irish presence.

I feel like the advocacy has gone global, although sadly it has taken 100,000 people murdered and starved to death to reach that point.

But what used to be little pockets around the world is mainstream now. I've never been on a boat in my life for more than 10 minutes, but I'm here.

The atmosphere is positive - which some have criticised with remarks about the selfie boat and people making light of what's happening.

That's propaganda, everyone here are dedicated humanitarians, there's no Kim Kardashian-type celebrity element.