DWYFOR Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts has called for the "safe release" of a Gwynedd aid worker who was detained by Israeli forces when on a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza.
Chris Hill, from Clwt-y-Bont, near Caernarfon, was onboard Eros 1 of the Global Sumud Flotilla when the vessel was seized by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in late April and early May.
The flotilla had been en route to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.
There is mounting concern following reports that Israeli forces have already boarded vessels and taken at least seven UK nationals by force in international waters, as part of a wider operation against the flotilla.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts raised a Point of Order with the Speaker in Parliament today (May 18).
She said: "Mr Speaker, have you received any notice of a statement from the government following the interception today by Israeli forces of more than 50 boats carrying aid for Gaza in international waters west of Cyprus.
"There are UK citizens on these vessels, including my constituent Chris Hill of Clwt-y-Bont near Caernarfon.
"Could you advise me how UK citizens’ right to provide humanitarian aid and the right to freedom of navigation in international waters can be guaranteed in this case, as well as immediate and unimpeded access to British consular officials?’
Ms Saville Roberts MP added: "I am deeply concerned by reports that multiple vessels in the Global Sumud Flotilla have again been intercepted and that humanitarian activists have been detained in international waters.
"These are civilians engaged in a peaceful mission to deliver desperately needed aid, and their safety must be an urgent priority.
"Among those on board is my constituent, Chris Hill from Clwt y Bont near Caernarfon, who is there to deliver essential supplies to the people of Gaza.
"His family, and our wider local community, are understandably worried about his welfare.
"The interception of civilian vessels and the detention of those delivering humanitarian aid raises profound concerns about the protection of civilians and respect for international law.
"International humanitarian law includes important rules to facilitate the passage of humanitarian relief such as food, clothing, and medical supplies as well as rules on the protection of humanitarian personnel.
"I am calling on the UK Government to act immediately to secure the safety and wellbeing of UK citizens involved, ensure urgent consular access, and press for their safe release."
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