The Global Somoud Flotilla, a massive international convoy carrying urgent humanitarian aid for Gaza, has docked in Tunisia after nearly a week at sea. The flotilla’s arrival marks its final stop before attempting to break Israel’s ongoing blockade of the enclave.
The coalition includes more than 50 ships representing at least 44 countries, each carrying roughly half a tonne of aid, including food, water, and medical supplies. Volunteers from across Europe and the Arab world are joining the effort, making this the largest aid flotilla yet to head toward Gaza.
High Spirits Despite Setbacks
Onboard journalist Mauricio Morales reported that morale remained strong as the flotilla approached Tunis. The convoy had earlier been forced to turn back due to stormy weather and carried out emergency repairs in Menorca before continuing its journey.
As the ships entered Tunisian waters, they were greeted by a flotilla of local boats waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Viva Palestina.” Tunisian police oversaw the docking, while crowds onshore celebrated the convoy’s arrival in a strong display of solidarity.
Preparing for the Final Push
The ships are expected to remain docked in Tunisia for two days to complete formal documentation and resupply with food and water. The flotilla will then set sail on September 10, with the voyage to Gaza projected to take just over a week.
Notable figures among the crew include climate activist Greta Thunberg, who previously joined the Madleen aid mission, and Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela. Both emphasized the importance of international solidarity in confronting what human rights groups describe as a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
Israeli Threats and Humanitarian Crisis
Israeli authorities have already announced plans to intercept the convoy. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has reportedly instructed that any crew members captured be imprisoned in the Ketziot and Damon detention facilities.
Previous missions—including the Handala, Marmara Blue, and Madleen—were all forcibly blocked by the Israeli navy, with crews detained and deported. The flotilla’s name, “Somoud” (Arabic for “steadfastness”), recalls an earlier convoy intercepted near Sirte by forces loyal to Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar.
The mission comes at a time of dire humanitarian need. Israel’s blockade has triggered famine across Gaza, where at least 387 Palestinians—including 138 children—have died of hunger. International aid groups estimate 900,000 children are currently food insecure, with at least 700,000 suffering from clinical malnutrition.
A Growing Movement of Defiance
Despite threats of arrest and the dangers of the open sea, the Somoud Flotilla insists it will press ahead. Organizers describe the mission as a moral imperative amid what they call “world inaction.”
As the convoy prepares for its final leg, Tunisia has become the symbolic last gateway to Gaza, with the flotilla carrying not only aid supplies, but also the hopes of millions demanding relief for a population under siege.
