Author and journalist with Longford roots returns from Gaza humanitarian efforts

Naoise Dolan, 33, who has Longford roots through her grandparents, was a part of the flotilla that headed to Gaza to provide humanitarian aid.

As of Sunday, October 12, Naoise's mother, Miriam McNally, told the 'Longford Leader' that Naoise had been released that morning. It was confirmed that both Naoise and Dr Veronica O'Keane were transferred to Jordan after being detained by Israeli forces.

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Naoise joined the second wave of the mission which departed from Catania, Italy, on Saturday, September 20. Having had extensive preparation, she was to arrive back to Ireland, via Istanbul, and land in Dublin at approximately 4pm.

“She's safe now, but we will continue to support Palestinians for as long as they need us,” stated Miriam in response to the news.

The Global Sumud Flotilla contained dozens of small vessels carrying activists from 44 countries and provisions for the people of Gaza, a record number, all leaving from various Mediterranean ports.

A welcome party had been arranged to be at the airport for when she and others returned.

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Miriam spoke about what it meant to hear the news:

“As my son said: while we celebrate Naoise's safe return, we hold close those who remain imprisoned. Please keep speaking out, donating and amplifying Palestinian voices. Their freedom is our shared responsibility.

“We are not the story, they are, and we raise our voices for them for as long as they cannot.”

Photos of the safe return were supplied by Shabnam, Freedom Flotilla Coalition.