International Solidarity on Display in Sidi Bou Saïd
The beach and port of Sidi Bou Saïd have transformed into a scene of international fraternity. Thousands of people, from Tunisia and elsewhere, have welcomed the ships of the "Al-Soumoud" flotilla, a symbol of civil solidarity in the face of the armed blockade of Gaza. Just days before the flotilla's departure for the Palestinian enclave, Tunis has become the center of a global mobilization for justice and dignity.
A Festive and Militant Atmosphere
The beach in the charming town of Sidi Bou Saïd resonated yesterday with the rhythm of songs and slogans in support of the Palestinian cause. Near the marina, a large crowd gathered by the thousands to welcome the arrival of the "Al-Soumoud" flotilla's boats in a festive and militant atmosphere. The turnout was exceptional, matching the collective emotion. Tunisians from all over the country, as well as foreign nationals, converged on this symbolic location, united by a common cause. Young and old, draped in keffiyehs, Palestinian and Tunisian flags, formed a vibrant and unprecedented human tableau. The Palestinian cause continues to run deep in the veins of the Tunisian people.
Departure Scheduled for September 10
After several postponements due to weather and logistical conditions, the international "Al-Soumoud" flotilla will finally set sail from the port of Sidi Bou Saïd, Tunisia, on Wednesday, September 10. This humanitarian mission with significant symbolic impact brings together hundreds of activists from several countries, determined to peacefully break the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip for over 18 years. During these few days, Tunisia has become the new center of gravity for solidarity with the inhabitants of the Palestinian enclave of Gaza.
A Global Mobilization
About twenty ships from Spain, part of the global "Al-Soumoud" flotilla, began arriving on the Tunisian coast yesterday. These boats are carrying activists and humanitarian aid destined for Gaza, with the goal of breaking the Israeli blockade. According to Wael Naouar, a member of the coordination committee of the Maghreb "Al-Soumoud" flotilla, the departure for Gaza is scheduled for next Wednesday, September 10, from the port of Sidi Bou Saïd, with the integration of Tunisian ships, and others at sea near Italy. "We will never stop as long as the blockade on Gaza continues," he emphasizes.
International Activists Join the Flotilla
The two activists, Thiago Ávila and Greta Thunberg, disembarked at the port of Sidi Bou Saïd. Initially scheduled for September 4, then postponed to September 7, the departure date was finally set for September 10. This delay, according to a statement from the organizers, is due to "technical and logistical reasons beyond their control," including the delay of the Spanish flotilla due to unfavorable weather conditions in the western Mediterranean.
A Clear Message to the International Community
Despite these setbacks, the participants' commitment has remained solid and unwavering. The Tunisian fleet is carrying over a hundred activists, including notable international figures such as Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela. The message to the international community is clear: the flotilla does not seek to "force the blockade" but to exert pressure through peaceful mobilization and media visibility. The flotilla members are calling for the creation of a permanent humanitarian corridor for Gaza, similar to what NGOs and UN agencies have been demanding for years.
A New Generation Carries the Torch
University professor Hassen Kassar, who recently participated in several solidarity actions with the Palestinian people, is deeply moved by the popular momentum observed in Tunisia, particularly among young people. In a statement to La Presse, he explains that "the Tunisian people never cease to surprise us with their high level of militant awareness and their unwavering commitment to just causes." He adds that "Tunisia's position on the Palestinian cause is unequivocal, despite threats and temptations. It remains faithful to its principles, making it one of the most progressive countries on the international scene."
A Form of Resistance
The professor emphasizes that this massive mobilization reflects a form of resistance against Zionism and those he describes as "enemies of peoples and humanity," who are responsible for the humiliation of the Palestinian people in particular. "What makes me even happier today is to see at the heart of the demonstrations these new generations, bearers of the banner of Palestine's liberation."
A Global Caravan
Salim Bidi, an Algerian member of the "Al-Soumoud" caravan, praises Tunisia's exceptional mobilization and its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause. "We are witnessing a true popular and humanitarian carnival. The atmosphere is incredible! I sincerely hope that this international caravan will succeed in breaking the blockade imposed on Gaza. This is our main objective, because what is happening there concerns our brothers, our people in Gaza," he declares to La Presse.
A Clear Stance Against Double Standards
Tunisia's participation in this global initiative is not just a humanitarian impulse but rather a clear stance against the double standard surrounding the application of the right to self-determination. While some struggles for self-determination receive immediate and massive support, others, like that of the Palestinian people, are relegated to oblivion.
A Counter-Narrative Based on Justice and Dignity
In the face of the silence of major powers and the inertia of international institutions, this initiative attempts to impose a counter-narrative based on justice, dignity, and rights, where official discourse fails to recognize prolonged oppression.
