Press release by World Mizrachi Movement's Daniel Cohen, Programs Director:

"In recent months, the State of Israel has been under attack by a campaign of delegitimization by its enemies. The climax of this campaign was the flotilla, which left from Turkey to Gaza, headed by the Mavi Marmara ship, with the intention of breaking the naval blockade that Israel imposed to prevent the entry of weapons into Gaza.

As is known, Squadron 13 of the Israeli Navy, under orders from the Israeli government, stopped the flotilla, which evoked strong criticism from the whole world. Since the end of this flotilla, various anti-Israel organizations have been trying to send more ships to Gaza.

The Young Leadership Department of the World Mizrachi Movement, in collaboration with the student organization Yavneh Olami, have initiated a "Blue & White Flotilla", off the coast of Israel.

Beyond an expression of solidarity and standing alongside the State of Israel, the goal of the "Blue & White Flotilla" is to rouse young Jews around the world, prepare for and to assist Israel in coping with the challenges it faces in the near future, with the expected announcement of a Palestinian state in the United Nations, and in the face of further anti-Israel flotillas which are expected to arrive in the future.

We intend to sail with several yachts and boats from Ashkelon to Ashdod, on Aug 14, 2011. During the journey, we will hold a special ceremony saluting the soldiers of Squadron 13 and the Navy, and call upon the terrorist organization, Hamas, and countries around the world, for the speedy release of Gilad Shalit, who remains in captivity for over five years." +++