Support for the aid flotilla is universal in Gaza, partly because of the aid it aims to deliver, but more popularly because of the symbolism it holds.
Khalil Shaheen, head of economic and social rights at the Palestinian centre for Human Rights, believes the most important message carried by the Gaza aid flotilla, which is attempting to leave Athens, is solidarity.
"The flotilla is not solely a humanitarian convoy," he explains, "It is intended to put political pressure on the occupying forces to ease and lift the siege. Palestinians aren't sitting here waiting for the humanitarian aid to arrive in Gaza; what they are waiting for is support, peace and justice."
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Khalil Shaheen says: "It is no good simply offloading the aid into Gaza. Our demand is to end the siege not just to give milk to children. The aim of the flotilla is to break the siege; delivering the aid via Israel simply does not achieve this."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/global-development/2011/jul/06/gaza-aid-flotilla-israel-palestinians