Largest Humanitarian Flotilla to Gaza Sets Sail from Tunisia
Since Saturday, the largest humanitarian flotilla ever organized in solidarity with Gaza has begun its journey from Tunisia. A significant moment for the Palestinian cause, hailed and closely followed internationally.
There are historic appointments that one cannot afford to miss, beyond any political or ideological affiliation. This is the case when it comes to defending the Palestinian cause. In its current configuration, the Soumoud Flotilla is a source of pride for Tunisia and for all Tunisians who are fond of justice and solidarity with oppressed peoples. All the more so since its objective is clear and noble: to break the blockade imposed on Gaza through the largest flotilla ever organized.
The organizers, whether of foreign nationality, mainly European or Arab, have not hesitated to praise the solidarity momentum of Tunisia, saluting its constant support for the Palestinian people, who are starving and imprisoned in their own land.
The Boats Have Set Sail for Gaza
This Saturday, September 13, will remain a date to be marked with a white stone. And for good reason, the first departures of the flotilla's boats were recorded at the beginning of yesterday afternoon, heading for Gaza, after several postponements related to logistical, climatic, and other constraints. The first boat to set sail, flying the Spanish flag, left the Marina de Bizerte port with international activists on board, including Turks, under the leadership of a Bizertin by birth.
On site, at the Marina de Bizerte, Khaled Boujemaa, a member of the flotilla's coordination committee, told the media that the boats departing from Sidi Bou Saïd would finally not join the port of Bizerte. The meeting point has been set at sea, from where all the boats will head for Gaza. In total, 22 ships will set sail from Bizerte.
"Our mission is purely humanitarian. We are transporting medicine and food to break the blockade on Gaza. Threats of imprisonment do not intimidate us, nor do their missiles," he affirmed. The organizers are unanimous: "Our only priority is to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Nothing in the world will deter us from this mission."
Solidarity Without Borders
Never before has the Soumoud flotilla brought together such a large number of participants and boats. More than 800 activists from 44 countries are taking part in this edition, including several foreign parliamentarians. A record and unprecedented mobilization. The determination to break the blockade was also evident in the words of Riccardo Rudino, representative of the autonomous collective of dockers from Genoa: "By mid-September, the boats will reach the coast of Gaza and enter the critical zone. If, for just 20 minutes, we lose contact with them, we will block all of Europe."
In the face of Zionist threats, he warns: "Every year, 13,000 to 14,000 containers leave the port of Genoa for Israel. If a single activist is imprisoned, nothing will leave. Not a single nail. We will launch an international strike. We will block roads and schools."
As the boats advance since yesterday towards a high-tension zone, the determination of the participants, reinforced by the support of civil actors on a global scale, sends a strong message. The Palestinian cause continues to unite beyond borders, languages, religions, and political convictions.
Certainly, the fate of this flotilla will now be decided at sea. But whatever the outcome, the signal sent will resonate for a long time in memories as one of the most significant acts of solidarity in recent years.
