Iceland: "Nothing can justify the collective punishment of millions of Palestinians. Starvation. Bombardment, Forced displacement. These acts are cruel, they're inhumane, and they are illegal. There are children dying every day in Palestine. For the past two years. At least one child. One child has been killed every hour in Gaza. Every single hour." Full speech:

Surrounded by fashion. Rome airport

Huwaida Arraf, my contact in the flotilla.

Mahady helping me connect to the Internet on my flight to Rome on my way to join the media flotilla. He frequents Pathshala, knows Topu and wants to join videography course. Palestine will be free.

About to land in Rome in a couple of hours before travelling another 600 km overland to Otranto where the flotilla awaits. 10 smaller boats have already left for Gaza. We shall overcome. Thanks to all my friends across the globe who have sent greetings and prayers. I take your good wishes with me for our Palestinian brothers and sisters. Palestine will be free.

Shahidul Alam Leaves to join the Global Sumud Flotilla's Media Flotilla