STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- St. George Resident Omnia Hegazy knew on Aug. 25, when her twin sister and bandmate, Leila, left to become part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, there were risks involved.

Omnia’s fears came to fruition on Oct. 1, when she learned via social media that Leila was one of dozens of global activists arrested by Israeli Military for attempting to bring aid to civilians in Gaza.

“She was on a lead boat, the Alma, with Greta Thunberg and Nelson Mandela’s grandson (Nkosi Zwelivelile “Mandla” Mandela.), among other European parliamentarians, so their boat was one of the first to be intercepted. I think (the Israeli Military) took out the two biggest boats first,” said Omnia.

“The Israeli Navy dangerously encircled her ship forcing her captain to do evasive maneuvers to

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