The “Al Soumoud Caravan,” a citizen-led initiative in support of the Palestinian people and in protest of the blockade imposed on Gaza, left Tunisian territory at dawn on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The convoy crossed the Ras Jedir border post heading into Libya, marking a new stage in its journey to the Gaza Strip, which it aims to reach via Egypt.
Comprising 14 buses and 140 vehicles, the caravan symbolizes a popular mobilization of unprecedented scale. Up to the last moment, a large and enthusiastic crowd accompanied the participants in the border town of Ben Guerdane, where a warm popular welcome extended late into Monday night. Waving Tunisian and Palestinian flags, local residents organized a massive solidarity march, sharing a deeply emotional and powerful moment with the members of the caravan.
A Citizen Initiative Born of Spontaneous Momentum
According to Nabil Chenoufi, the caravan’s spokesperson, the scale of public support far exceeded expectations:
“This project was not born from an institutional program, but from a spontaneous movement. It touched the hearts of Tunisians and awakened a deep sense of commitment to the Palestinian cause,” he told the TAP news agency.
The widespread public support seen in Tunisia has provided strong moral encouragement to the participants, who now hope for a similar reception in Libya and later in Egypt.
Onward to Egypt, Between Optimism and Caution
The next stage of the journey presents challenges, particularly at the Saloum border post between Libya and Egypt. Nevertheless, Chenoufi remains optimistic:
“It’s hard to imagine that the Egyptian authorities would deny entry to people coming from Tunisia, Libya, and Algeria for such a noble cause,” he said.
In the face of any obstacles, the organizers plan to rely on diplomatic channels. An Algerian parliamentary delegate is part of the convoy and is tasked with coordinating with Egyptian authorities. Tunisia has facilitated the caravan’s preparations and expressed official support for the initiative, while Libyan authorities—from both the eastern and western regions—have pledged their assistance up to the Egyptian border.
An International Convergence Expected in Egypt
The Tunisian caravan will not be alone in Egypt. According to Chenoufi, delegations from over 32 countries are preparing to converge on Egypt by air. Meanwhile, the maritime convoy “Freedom Flotilla” set sail a few days ago, further underscoring the global dimension of this solidarity movement.
A Humanitarian Message Beyond Material Aid
More than a logistical or humanitarian effort, the Al Soumoud caravan aims to deliver a powerful political and human message.
“This is not a caravan of donations or assistance. It is a humanist caravan, carrying a universal message: Gaza is close, and the Palestinian cause remains alive in the hearts of Arab peoples,” Chenoufi emphasized.
He added:
“Even if this first caravan does not reach Gaza, others will follow. Because our ultimate goal remains the recognition of the State of Palestine and the end of the occupation.”
A Strong Signal from Tunisian Civil Society
This citizen-led initiative demonstrates the capacity of Tunisian civil society to mobilize for international causes that transcend geographic and political boundaries. At a time of rising regional tensions, the Al Soumoud caravan stands as a powerful symbol of solidarity and commitment.
Source: TAP
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