Overview

• Crew members discovered a rope wrapped around Handala’s propeller and a water tank laced with sulfuric acid hours before its July 20 departure, causing chemical burns to two sailors.
• After a two-day technical delay, the ex-Norwegian trawler set off from Gallipoli on a weeklong voyage carrying donated food, medical equipment, children’s supplies and medicines.
• Twenty-one passengers, including French deputies Emma Fourreau and Gabrielle Cathala, aim to challenge Israel’s naval blockade by delivering aid to Gaza.
• Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot labeled the expedition irresponsible and reminded MPs that travel advisories apply to all citizens, drawing sharp public rebuttals from the participating deputies.
• Organizers warn that the Israeli navy could intercept the vessel, underscoring the volatile security risks facing civilian humanitarian missions at sea.