Tunisian Flotilla Prepares to Challenge Gaza Blockade as Part of Global Effort
Tunisia is preparing to launch a flotilla towards Gaza, joining a growing international movement aiming to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge the ongoing Israeli blockade. The initiative, part of the broader Global Sumud mission, is rapidly gaining momentum with volunteers and donations pouring in from across the country and internationally.
The flotilla will carry a diverse group of individuals including doctors, activists, lawyers, convoy organizers, and social media influencers. Cargo holds are being filled with essential supplies – medicine, infant milk, and gifts from Tunisian children intended for their peers in Gaza - reflecting a deep sense of solidarity.
Organizers acknowledge the notable risks involved. All seven previous flotillas attempting to reach Gaza since 2010 have been intercepted or attacked by the Israeli army before reaching Gazan waters. Recent incidents, such as the May 2nd attack on the ship Conscience by Israeli armed drones 25 kilometers off the coast of Malta, underscore the potential for confrontation.
Preparations are underway in multiple tunisian cities – Tunis, Bizerte, Beja, Sousse, Sfax, and Gabes – fueled by a strong emotional connection to the situation in Gaza. Volunteers cite the devastating impact of nearly two years of Israeli bombardment,resulting in over 62,000 Palestinian deaths,as a key motivator. The recent participation of Tunisian activists like Hatem laayouni (aboard the Handala mission) and the Tunisian-led Sumud convoy have further galvanized support.
“Tunisians no longer think Palestine is far away.Palestine is close,” stated a volunteer identifying as Sahraoui, reflecting a growing sense of urgency. Participants hail from Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the United States, driven by the escalating famine conditions in Gaza.
the organizing committee launched a fundraising and donation drive on August 22nd, swiftly securing the necessary vessels within ten days.While the exact number of boats remains confidential, Ghassan Boughdiri, a committee member, confirmed they have “the exact number we need.” The names and total number of participants will be released closer to the departure date.
Donations of medicine and infant milk have been collected and packed, awaiting the opportunity to be delivered once the blockade is lifted.Final preparations include equipping the vessels with essential safety equipment - wi-fi, cameras, and life jackets.
boughdiri highlighted the widespread public support,noting even small donations of 5-10 dinars (approximately $1.70-$3.40) demonstrate a collective commitment to aiding Palestinians in Gaza.
Despite the potential for international scrutiny should Israel attempt to forcibly halt the flotilla, organizers acknowledge the likelihood of a violent response. “This is the largest aid flotilla to Gaza ever,” Sahraoui stated, “So we don’t really know how they’ll respond. I hope we do reach Gaza eventually.” The mission proceeds with the understanding that sending humanitarian aid to crisis zones is permissible under international law, but with a realistic expectation of potential Israeli intervention.
