Chairman Muhammad Zidan of the Higher Arab Monitoring Committee announced on Monday that the committee won't be participating in the Gaza-bound flotilla, according to the Arab Kuds Net website. He cited the difficulties the flotilla is encountering and the cancellation of a number of boat's participation in the attempt to break the Gaza naval blockade.
Zidan criticized the pressure exerted by Israel, the United States, and other sources for putting hurdles in the way of the flotilla and creating confusion. He also expressed appreciation for all those who will continue to participate and expressed hope that the hurdles will be removed.