Activists sail from Cyprus determined to break Gaza blockade

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

LARNACA, Cyprus (AFP) — Two converted fishing boats set sail from Cyprus on Friday carrying 44 pro-Palestinian activists determined to break the Israeli blockade of the poverty-stricken Gaza Strip.

The activists, some of whom have received death threats, flashed peace signs and gave victory salutes before hugging each other and boarding the boats bound for Gaza -- and a possible confrontation with the Israeli Navy.

The boats left from Larnaca port on the island's south coast at 9.50 am (0650 GMT) to cheers from a small crowd of supporters.

The 370 kilometre (230 mile) journey to Gaza is expected to take up to 30 hours but the group expects to be stopped by Israeli forces before they reach Gaza.

Israel has warned the activists to steer clear of the...

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