New Zealand activist in flytilla arrested in Tel Aviv

New Zealand activist Vivienne Porzsolt has been arrested in Israel (4.30 am Israel time July 12) as part of the "flytilla" going to Palestine. The flytilla consists of pro- Palestinian activists from all over the world flying into Tel Aviv airport together to seek entry to the Gaza strip and West Bank. The flytilla was undertaken after Israeli pressure forced the boats in Freedom Flotilla II to abandon their attempt to breach the Israeli blockade of Gaza last week.

Vivienne was on the Tahrir (the Canadian boat in the Freedom Flotilla along with New Zealander Harmeet Sooden) which was one of the boats which was turned back by Greek coast guard. She is currently being held in a detention centre in Tel Aviv and according to Australian DFAT she will be deported back to Athens after receiving an Australian Consulate visit.

Vivienne is a 69 year old Jewish New Zealander who has lived most of the past 20 years in Australia. She is courageous activist who has strong links to New Zealanders active in the struggle for Palestinian human rights.

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