Sixteen vessels in the Global Sumud Flotilla left Tunisia over the weekend, with organisers vowing to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade and deliver aid to Gaza. Ships departed from Bizerte, Gammarth and Sidi Bou Said, with additional boats leaving Italy and Spain to meet the convoy at sea.

Routes, Ports, and the Plan

A Maghreb contingent member said 11 ships sailed from Bizerte between Saturday evening and late Sunday, while “a total of eight Tunisian ships are currently docked at Gammarth,” with departures staggered through the day. Organisers added that remaining vessels at Sidi Bou Said would push off as the fleet forms up with European boats.

Security Tensions and Recent Incidents

The launch came after a flagship vessel at Sidi Bou Said suffered fire damage last week; flotilla representatives alleged a drone strike and shared video, while Tunisian officials attributed the blaze to an onboard source. Activists say they will proceed despite risks; local and international figures have rallied publicly, and additional craft have been readied.

Regional Context and What Comes Next

Israel has historically intercepted Gaza-bound flotillas, and debate continues over how authorities will respond this time as the convoy advances. The effort also unfolds against intensifying diplomacy and legal scrutiny over humanitarian access to Gaza, with international jurists having ordered steps to enable aid flows earlier in the war.