Tunis, June 9, 2025 — A Tunisian aid convoy carrying essential humanitarian supplies has left Tunisia for Gaza in an ambitious attempt to break Israel’s longstanding naval blockade. Organized by civil society groups, medical professionals and human rights activists based across Tunisia, its arrival was met with praise in Tunis as an act of defiance and solidarity amid Gaza’s grave humanitarian situation.
This convoy, comprised of trucks and container shipments scheduled to be transferred onto ships in a Mediterranean port, contains medical equipment, food staples, baby formula, clean water and emergency supplies – not only intended to save lives, but also send a powerful political statement across. Organizers believe that their initiative aims not only to provide lifesaving aid but also send a strong political statement across.
“Our objective is clear: we aim to stand with the people of Gaza in confronting the illegal blockade that has reduced it to an open-air prison,” stated Hassen Bougatef, one of the lead coordinators of Tunisia’s effort. “Tunisia cannot remain silent in face of suffering.”
The convoy’s departure was marked by a large rally in Tunis, attended by thousands of supporters who waved Palestinian flags, chanted anti-blockade slogans and demanded action from international bodies such as the UN and Arab League.
“This aid mission is not simply an aid mission; it is a moral obligation,” stated Amira Nasri, a student volunteer helping coordinate logistics. “Gaza needs more than words; it needs real support.”
Israel maintains a tight blockade on Gaza from air, sea and land access points and has not commented on Tunisian convoy’s arrival into Gaza; instead defending such measures as necessary in preventing weapon smuggling into Hamas-controlled enclave. Critics argue however that such policies constitute collective punishment which has contributed to breakdown in healthcare and food systems in Gaza.
United Nations reports indicate that more than 80% of Gaza’s population now relies on aid, with close to half of all children experiencing malnutrition. Furthermore, with Rafah crossing closures and diminishing fuel reserves making humanitarian delivery even harder than before.
Tunisian President Kais Saied voiced his support for the convoy, emphasizing Tunisia’s strong standing with Palestine and commending those responsible. He further encouraged other Arab nations to follow suit.
Security concerns remain at a peak as past attempts by international flotas to breach Israel’s blockade have been met with resistance by Israeli naval forces, often with force. Organizers say they expect resistance but remain committed to reaching their goal.
As the Tunisian convoy sets off on its journey, it stands as not just a lifeline for Gaza residents but an international statement against a blockade many argue has persisted for too long.