Flotilla Boat with Laika and Foglietta Halted at Venice’s Lido

Venice: A launch carrying Roman street artist Laika and Italian actress Anna Foglietta to the presentation of Laika’s new mural in support of the Global Sumud Flotilla for Gaza was stopped at the Lido in Venice, and a pro-Palestinian banner and Palestinian flag were seized.

According to Ansa News Agency, Carabinieri paramilitary police intercepted the launch with Laika and Foglietta aboard at Lido di Venezia, shortly before they were scheduled to dock at the Excelsior Hotel. The artists were en route to present Laika’s latest work, “We Are Coming,” which supports the Global Sumud Flotilla. During the launch, a young passenger was seen displaying a Palestinian flag, prompting law enforcement officers to order all individuals off the boat and confiscate the artwork, the flag, and a pro-Palestinian banner.

The incident highlights the tension surrounding the Global Sumud Flotilla, an initiative aimed at drawing attention to the situation in Gaza. Laika, who created the mural “Sumud” in Barcelona, emphasized the importance of taking a stand, stating, “You either stand with the oppressed, or you’re complicit. Even silence is complicity.” The artwork depicts a Palestinian woman pointing her finger to indicate a route, with the Palestinian flag trailing behind her, symbolizing resilience in the face of displacement.

Anna Foglietta remarked on the peaceful nature of artistic expression, asserting that “art today is a peaceful and nonviolent act of support for the Flotilla.” Meanwhile, the ‘Social Centers’ in the Northeast have declared their intent to blockade the port of Venice should the Flotilla to Gaza face any attempts to halt its mission.