A Grand Event: The Soumoud Flotilla Sets Sail
A monumental event has taken place in Bizerte, Tunisia, as the Soumoud flotilla gathered near the city's port of plaisance. Since Thursday evening, around 45 boats from Sidi Bou Said and Gammarth have anchored in the port, awaiting the departure of the flotilla.
A Massive Crowd Shows Support
A huge crowd, waving Palestinian flags and chanting "Free Palestine," gathered to welcome the first crews from various countries, including Malaysia, France, England, Indonesia, Finland, Pakistan, Egypt, and Tunisia. In total, more than 40 nationalities were represented. This massive movement, which spontaneously formed around the nautical sports and Habib-Bougatfa boulevard, eerily resembles another event that took place in Bizerte's commercial port in the summer of 1982, when Palestinian fighters were forced to leave Lebanon.
A Humanitarian Mission
The Soumoud flotilla aims to break the unbearable blockade imposed on the people of Gaza by the Zionist entity, in order to deliver essential food aid and medicine. According to M. Khaled Boujemaa, the coordinator in Bizerte and member of the Maghrebian coordination, around 800 to 850 people are participating in the flotilla. The departure, initially scheduled for last Wednesday, was postponed to Saturday due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Logistical Challenges and Determination
Boujemaa explained that the delay allowed the organizers to finalize logistical arrangements and complete customs formalities. Although the boats may not be luxurious, the determination of the activists is unwavering. On Saturday morning, 22 boats arrived at the port of Bizerte to join their fellow crew members in the territorial waters of Tunisia.
Moral and Support
When asked about the morale of the activists, Boujemaa replied that the flotilla has received support and encouragement from all over, and that the participants are more determined than ever to reach their goal. He expressed gratitude to the Global March to Gaza and numerous Tunisian personalities for their material support. The Tunisian people have always stood in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, and the creation of a Palestinian state is essential for peace in the Middle East. The flotilla is expected to take 9 to 10 days to reach the coast of Gaza, and we wish them courage and success on their journey.
