Family's fears for activist seized by Israeli authorities

Published on Thursday 2 July 2009 10:09

THE family of an Edinburgh activist was growing increasingly concerned for her welfare today after she was reportedly "kidnapped" by Israeli authorities.

The family of postal worker Theresa McDermott, 42, from Pilrig, are anxiously waiting for news after the aid boat she was on was said to have been seized in international waters.

They have not heard from her since Tuesday afternoon, when she sent her brother a brief message to say she was fine. Hours later, the boat is said to have been stopped by Israeli warships, who threatened them with gunfire if they did not turn around.

Ms McDermott was one of the activists on board Spirit of Humanity, which was carrying aid including medical supplies, books and children's toys to Gaza. She was arrested on a similar trip in February, and held in an isolation cell for four days, but she was determined to go back.

Her sister Winnie Chambers, a librarian at Edinburgh University who lives in Dalkeith, said today: "We're obviously very worried about her. She's incredibly brave to go out again after her last ordeal. Theresa is always concerned this will happen, but perhaps this time she has prepared herself mentally for it and has more of an idea what to expect.

"She is very committed to this cause. She believes so strongly that this is important and she can make a small difference.

"We last heard from her on Tuesday. She wanted to let us know she was all right. She said: 'Don't worry, I'll be fine.'"

Ms Chambers said they were cautiously optimistic that Israel would quickly give in to international pressure and release the campaigners.

Crew members include Nobel peace laureate Mairead Maguire and former US Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney. There are six Britons onboard, as well as activists from Denmark and the Middle East. Ms Chambers added: "We know there's nothing we can do, but because the people are higher profile, I think we are slightly more optimistic this time."

Edinburgh North and Leith MP Mark Lazarowicz has raised the matter with the Foreign Office.

He said: "I am demanding that the Israelis immediately release my constituent and all those who took part in this voyage of mercy."

A spokesman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: "We are speaking to the Israeli authorities and seeking to clarify the facts."