When UAE-based academic and activist Dr Zaheera Soomar made the decision to join the Global Sumud Flotilla to break the blockade on Gaza, she left behind her husband, children and parents to answer what she describes as a call. Her voyage turned into one of the most harrowing chapters of her life. The boat was intercepted, and she was taken into detention in Israel, detained for days, not knowing when or whether she would be released. On this episode of The Lovin Dubai Show, she shares her story: the calling, the fear, the strength and the vow to continue.
Speaking on The Lovin Dubai Show, Dr Zaheera said the decision didn’t come lightly, but she felt like it was her duty
It was one made out of conviction; a belief that if people don’t step up, change never happens. Despite knowing she could be detained or worse, she felt that doing nothing was simply not an option.
While at sea, the flotilla was intercepted before reaching its destination. The moment quickly turned chaotic, passengers were surrounded, communication was cut off, and fear filled the air. Dr Zaheera recalled the confusion and the helplessness of being taken away from the boat by armed forces. What began as a mission of peace suddenly became an experience of captivity.
What kept her going was the belief that her actions, however small, mattered. She spoke about finding strength in solidarity with others who shared the same mission, and the responsibility she felt to stand up for what she believes in. Her courage, she said, came from knowing that silence helps no one.
Catch Dr Zaheera Soomar’s full story
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