British-Palestinian Activist’s Family Issues Urgent Appeal After Flotilla Attack
The family of Osama Qashoo, a British-Palestinian activist aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, has issued an urgent public appeal for his safety after Israeli naval forces attacked and intercepted several of the humanitarian vessels attempting to reach Gaza.
In a statement circulated by PalHouse London, the family said they were speaking “with fear and anguish” as they awaited news of Osama, who they described as “a peaceful activist and humanitarian” whose mission was “rooted in justice, dignity, and peace.”
Family’s Fears of Targeting
While expressing pride in his courage, the family voiced deep concerns that his Palestinian heritage could make him more vulnerable to mistreatment despite holding a British passport.
“A passport should protect him, but we fear his ethnicity may override his rights,” the statement read.
The Qashoo family called on the UK government to act immediately, urging the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary to:
- Publicly affirm Israel’s responsibility for the safety of all flotilla passengers, including British citizens.
- Use diplomatic channels to demand protection and condemn violations of international law.
- Secure guarantees that detainees are treated with dignity and without discrimination.
The family stressed that Osama is “not a statistic” but a father of two daughters and a newborn son. “We will not rest until we know he is safe. The world must watch, and the world must act,” the statement concluded.
Who Is Osama Qashoo?
Qashoo is a well-known filmmaker and activist who has long used cultural and nonviolent initiatives to advocate for Palestinian rights. He co-founded the London restaurant Hiba Express, launched the Palestine House cultural hub project, and created Gaza Cola, a social enterprise aimed at funding medical infrastructure in Gaza.
He previously participated in flotilla efforts, including the 2010 Gaza Freedom Flotilla, where Israeli commandos killed nine activists. He has spoken of the trauma of that raid, describing it as a formative moment in his activism.
The Global Sumud Flotilla
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), launched in August 2025, is the largest civil society maritime mission yet attempting to break the Gaza blockade. It includes more than 40 vessels and 500 participants from over 40 countries, carrying humanitarian aid and seeking to open a sea corridor to Gaza.
In recent weeks, the flotilla has faced drone attacks, communication jamming, explosive harassment, and repeated naval shadowing. On October 1–2, Israeli forces intercepted at least 13 boats in international waters, sparking international condemnation from governments and human rights groups.
Israel insists it had warned the flotilla and offered alternative delivery routes for aid, but activists and legal experts argue the interception in international waters constitutes a breach of maritime law and amounts to piracy.
Growing International Outcry
The flotilla raid has drawn sharp criticism globally. Colombia expelled Israel’s diplomatic delegation, Turkey has launched investigations, and protests have taken place in major cities. Rights groups warn that the attack highlights both the fragility of international law and the growing risks faced by humanitarian workers at sea.
For the Qashoo family, however, the issue is not only legal or political — it is personal and immediate. Their appeal underscores the precarious fate of British citizens caught in the confrontation, and their demand is clear:
the UK government must act before it is too late.
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