Swansea humanitarian among Britons on Gaza flotilla as MPs raise safety concerns
Leigh Evans, who describes himself as a “full‑time humanitarian,” is among two Welsh participants on the Global Sumud Flotilla, alongside Nadia Kearney from Wrexham. The convoy of boats, backed by campaigner Greta Thunberg, is attempting to deliver humanitarian supplies to Gaza.
Leigh Evans on board the flotilla yacht as campaigners prepare to set sail for Gaza.(Photo: instagram.com/leighcadno)
MPs sign letter to Foreign Secretary
Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi confirmed she is one of 84 parliamentarians who have signed a letter to Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper calling for protection of those on board.
She wrote on social media:
“Two Welsh citizens – Leigh Evans from Swansea and Nadia Kearney from Wrexham – are among those on board. We must ensure their safety and defend their right to engage in non‑violent humanitarian action.”
The letter, coordinated by Labour MP Bell Ribeiro‑Addy, highlights past incidents where flotillas have been intercepted by Israeli forces and urges the UK Government to take steps to prevent harm to British nationals.
Letter from Bell Ribeiro‑Addy MP to Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, signed by 84 parliamentarians, raising concerns for the safety of British citizens on the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Previous arrest in London protest
Evans has been a visible figure in pro‑Palestinian activism. In August he was arrested during a London protest in support of the banned group Palestine Action. Extinction Rebellion, which shared footage of the arrest, described it as part of a wider clampdown on freedom of expression.
Following his release, Evans posted a lengthy message on Instagram urging supporters not to “fear the arrest,” calling for “passive interference” such as strikes, unpaid leave, and visible acts of solidarity. His post ended with the slogan “From the river to the sea.”
Leigh Evans being arrested during a London protest in support of Palestine Action earlier this year.(Photo: instagram.com/leighcadno)
Viral moment at Rafah crossing
Evans previously went viral after being filmed in tears at the Rafah border in Egypt, pleading with police to be allowed into Gaza. In the clip, reported by the Jewish Chronicle, he described the “horror” of conditions inside the Strip and appealed to officers as his “brothers” to “allow us to stand for Falesteen”.
Leigh Evans in tears as he pleads with Egyptian police at the Rafah border, urging to be allowed into Gaza.(Image: YouTube)
Calls for protection
Campaigners in Wales have echoed concerns for those on board. Pembrokeshire activist Jim Scott has written to MPs and ministers urging the UK and Welsh governments to follow European countries that have pledged naval protection for their citizens.
He warned that flotilla vessels had already faced intimidation in international waters and said: “Innocent Palestinian civilians, women and children are starving and under constant bombardment, and those aboard the flotilla are risking their lives to help them.”
Humanitarian mission under scrutiny
The flotilla, carrying food, baby formula and medical supplies, has drawn international attention. Supporters describe it as a peaceful humanitarian effort, while critics argue such missions risk confrontation with Israeli forces enforcing the blockade.
For Evans, the journey marks the latest chapter in a series of high‑profile interventions that have made him both a celebrated and controversial figure in the UK’s pro‑Palestinian movement.
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