The Global Sumud Flotilla, an unprecedented humanitarian coalition of activists from 44 countries determined to break the suffocating Israeli blockade on Gaza, has announced a short delay in its departure from Tunisia.

Despite facing technical challenges and adverse Mediterranean weather, organizers reaffirmed that the mission to deliver vital aid to Gaza will continue with renewed determination.

The international flotilla, which initially planned to depart on September 10, is now scheduled to set sail on the afternoon of Saturday, September 13, weather permitting.

“On August 31, our boats departed Spain and reached Tunisia’s Sidi Bousaid Port. Two of the vessels ready to join the Flotilla have arrived at Bizerte in northern Tunisia,” said Khalid Bucuma, a member of the Flotilla’s Board of Directors. “However, the safety of our volunteers and the success of our mission are paramount. We have been forced to delay our departure due to unfavorable weather conditions but will move forward as soon as conditions allow.”

Dr. Mohammed Amin Binnur, a member of the Tunisian delegation of the Flotilla, told Tunisia’s official TAP news agency that preparations are still underway at Sidi Bousaid Port and that weather conditions remain too risky for small and medium-sized vessels to cross the Mediterranean safely. “Our mission is a lifeline for the people of Gaza, who face daily siege and bombardment. We will finalize preparations at Bizerte Port and head for Gaza as soon as we can guarantee the security of our volunteers and the safe delivery of the aid,” Binnur emphasized.

On Thursday, thousands of Tunisians gathered in an emotional farewell ceremony, waving Palestinian flags and chanting for freedom. The crowd’s outpouring of support underscored Tunisia’s unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian cause, even as the announcement of the postponement slightly tempered the moment.

The Global Sumud Flotilla has also faced sinister attempts to derail its mission. Organizers confirmed that the Flotilla was subjected to drone attacks on the nights of September 8 and 9, in what they condemned as cowardly acts designed to intimidate activists and sabotage the humanitarian effort. Far from discouraging the participants, these attacks have strengthened their resolve to break through Israel’s illegal blockade and deliver urgently needed supplies to Gaza’s besieged residents.

Human rights defenders, political leaders, and activists worldwide are closely following the Flotilla’s journey. The mission is seen as a direct challenge to the inhumane blockade that has strangled Gaza for over 17 years, turning the coastal enclave into what many describe as an “open-air prison.”

As the Global Sumud Flotilla makes its final preparations, the world watches with hope and solidarity, praying for safe passage and the successful delivery of this much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza. (ILKHA)