NGO Formally Requests Israeli Defence Ministry Approval for Humanitarian Sea Passage to Cyprus

JERUSALEM - Sept. 11, 2025 - PRLog -- Jerusalem/Gaza – A humanitarian NGO representing more than 300,000 civilians trapped in Gaza has formally submitted a request to the Israeli Ministry of Defence and COGAT seeking authorization for a pilot humanitarian sea voyage of 30 civilians from Gaza to Cyprus.

The selected passengers are lawful holders of European Union passports, residence permits, or visas, guaranteeing their right of entry into Cyprus. All costs related to the voyage – including vessel, crew, and reception – will be fully covered by the NGO, ensuring no financial or operational burden falls on the State of Israel.

"This initiative is about saving lives and sending a clear message: the true tragedy in Gaza is that civilians are being used as shields by Hamas," said Moe shami. "While Hamas and its supporters send propaganda boats toward Israel, we are organizing a humanitarian boat to help civilians leave the war zone safely and legally."

The NGO's letter to Minister of Defence Israel katz stresses that:

• Israel has the opportunity to implement Prime Minister Netanyahu's public statement affirming the right of Gaza civilians to leave for safe areas.
• The voyage will take place under full Israeli naval and security inspection, with complete transparency of passenger lists and travel documents.
• This departure would serve as a pilot framework for future organized humanitarian sea evacuations under Israeli supervision.

The NGO emphasized that international and European media outlets are already preparing to cover the story, making the way Israel handles the request a matter of broad diplomatic and humanitarian visibility.

"This is a chance for Israel to demonstrate to the world that it does not prevent civilians from leaving Gaza and that it is committed to humanitarian principles," said Moe shami. "By approving this departure, Israel will undermine Hamas propaganda and reinforce its legitimacy on the international stage."

The organization confirmed that the 30 passengers include women, children, and medical cases. The NGO has pledged to provide all documents – including the full passenger manifest, passports, and vessel details – to Israeli authorities in advance.

The proposed voyage will disembark at Larnaca, Republic of Cyprus, an EU-recognized port, with full coordination with Cypriot authorities.

About the NGO

GCVMI represents more than 300,000 civilians in Gaza who seek safe departure from the conflict zone. The organization advocates for legal, humanitarian pathways for civilians to relocate abroad, free from the control of armed groups.

Media contact

press@gcvmi.org

https://www.gcvmi.org