When the flotilla arrived in Africa from Spain, Henry said she was struck by the families who came out to greet it.
“It was hard leaving my family – yes, it was,” she said.
“Every time I do a video call [with my family], I want to burst into tears.”
Henry said she was aware that the European Union had recommended the aid flotilla not proceed towards Gaza.
“I hear that,” she said. “We have seen that in the past two years the UN and other organisations have been trying to help. It has not been successful. Aid is not being allowed in[to Gaza].”
The flotilla of about 50 boats carrying 400 people from across the world was refuelling in Tunisia, before a planned final journey east to Gaza.
Julia Henry, husband Sam Edwards and their two youngest children
The flotilla was entirely peaceful and carried no weapons, Henry said. It would not land in Gaza but wanted to create an aid corridor, she said.
In a letter sent to MPs, including Tasmanian Labor MP Julie Collins, on Tuesday, Henry wrote: “I am not a typical activist or campaigner. When I see suffering, I’ve always acted, and I have marched for causes I believe in, but I have never taken direct action, let alone travelled to the other side of the world do it.
“I could no longer look away or ignore the relentless images of innocent men, women and children caught up in the endless horror.”
Henry’s husband, Sam Edwards, said he was deeply concerned for Henry.
“I didn’t want her to go, as the risks of even reaching Gaza were already significant – and that was before confirmed reports of drones being used against vessels,” he said.
“I urged her to reconsider, but she understood the potential consequences, and I respect her commitment. My only wish is for her to return safely.”
Experts have said that Gaza is in the grip of famine. The territory was invaded by Israel after the Hamas massacres of October 7 two years ago, which killed about 1200 people in Israel. The Gaza Health Ministry says about 64,000 people have died in the military assault against Hamas.
Henry called upon the Australian government to show compassion to the people of Gaza.
“Yes, my gesture is small in the scheme of things, but I hope it at least makes someone in a position of power sit up, take notice and act,” she said.
