ALBAWABA - About 20 ships that left Spain as part of the "Global Sumud Flotilla" have arrived in Tunisia as part of a bigger mission to reach the Gaza Strip and break the Israeli siege.
Hundreds of Tunisians gathered at the port of Sidi Bou Said in the capital, Tunis, awaiting the arrival of the Sumud ships. The Global Sumud Flotilla will be delivering humanitarian aid and breaking the Israeli blockade.
Tunisians welcomed three Spanish ships, among a number of vessels participating in the Global Sumus Flotilla, with more ships expected to arrive in succession. Slogans were raised, including: "Gaza, we are coming," "With our souls and blood we will redeem Palestine for you," and "Gaza, Gaza, a symbol of pride."
Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila, a member of the Steering Committee of the Global Sumud Flotilla, said during a press conference at the port of Sidi Bou Said that "Tunisia is home to most of the delegations participating in the flotilla," adding that "the reception was overwhelming and exemplary worldwide."
A spokesperson for the flotilla said that around 45 nationalities are currently present in Tunisia, and that ships have set sail from Italy. He confirmed that "there will be between 500 and 800 individuals on the Maghreb Steadfastness Flotilla, which will depart from Tunisia."