NC firefighter joining mission to bring aid into Gaza through Mediterranean Sea
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — A Raleigh firefighter is joining a group of volunteers called the “Freedom Flotilla Coalition,” which seeks to bring aid into Gaza through the Mediterranean Sea.
Brian McGinnis told sister station CBS 17 that it was unbearable for him to watch the Israel-Hamas War unfold from the comfort of his home in Wendell, N.C. The Marine veteran says he believes he’s meant to play a hands-on role in helping Palestinians in Gaza.
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“We are boarding the ship tomorrow. That’s great news. One step closer to departing,” said McGinnis.
After multiple delays, the group is set to board the ships on April 26, but it’s still unclear when, or if, the Turkish government will allow the flotilla to embark. The mission includes delivering 5,000 tons of aid via the Mediterranean Sea, drawing attention to the backup of aid through land routes.
McGinnis said that he received a warm welcome in Turkey, where locals resonated with the group’s solidarity with the Palestinians. He also said the days leading up to embarking include specific training on how to navigate any complications at sea.
“It’s really taken shape in my mind and all of our minds. We collectively comfort each other, and we feel stronger as a group,” said McGinnis.
Meanwhile, McGinnis’s wife, Hanadee Ali, waits at their home in Wendell for her husband to return. Ali, who is a Palestinian herself, said that she’s proud of McGinnis. She also told CBS 17 that her more relaxed demeanor is helping her stay positive while she waits for McGinnis to return home to her and their four kids.
“I’m relying on him and his team to get back safely,” said Ali.
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