“We understand the reasons behind what led people to engage in this action”, within the framework of “political activism,” but it is “important that there is common sense,” stated Mariana Leitão to journalists during a campaign action in Caldas da Rainha, in the Leiria district, for the municipal elections on October 12.
“I think the Government did what it had to do, which is to alert” and “it is monitoring the situation, warned against leaving international waters, cautioned about the circumstances and is doing what it can,” stressed Mariana Leitão, who expressed understanding for the motives of the activist group, which includes BE leader Mariana Mortágua.
Mariana Leitão said she respects the activists’ choices but urged for common sense to prevent creating a situation “that could be much more complicated from a diplomatic standpoint and even for the safety of the people involved.”
The Portuguese Prime Minister said that the Government is in contact with Italy and Spain regarding the monitoring of the humanitarian flotilla heading to Gaza, acknowledging a “danger record,” but noted that the executive did “what was appropriate” in this context.
When questioned about the government’s call for protection made by Portuguese citizens aboard the humanitarian fleet heading to the Gaza Strip, the Prime Minister acknowledged that there is indeed currently a “danger record.”
However, Luís Montenegro considered that the executive did “what was appropriate given the circumstances,” notably by “appealing for unnecessary risks not to be taken,” as the flotilla approaches Gaza and there is the possibility of interception by Israeli military forces and the detention of activists on board.
Deputy Mariana Mortágua rejected the call to leave the flotilla before interception by Israel, but Luís Montenegro said he respects the decision of the BE leader.
