The Libyan vessel Omar al-Mukhtar set sail Sunday to join the Global Sumud Flotilla aiming to breach Israel’s Gaza blockade. The ship was grounded Wednesday due to severe weather, the vessel’s spokesperson Nabil al-Soukni told Anadolu, delaying its planned departure.
“We are now fully equipped, and increased supplies for smaller boats previously limited by storage constraints,” al-Soukni said. He added that space was allocated for activists from vessels deemed unfit to reach Gaza safely.
The Omar al-Mukhtar carries tents, medicines, baby formula, and essential supplies for Palestinians of all ages in the enclave. “The popular and moral support from Libyan groups lifted the crew’s spirits aboard the Omar al-Mukhtar,” al-Soukni noted.
Among those on board is former Libyan Prime Minister Omar al-Hassi, alongside international activists joining the humanitarian mission. Medical officer Abdel Rahman Humaid said an intensive care unit and health team were installed to serve the flotilla’s participants.
“We furnished the ship with the necessary equipment, medicines, and full intensive care capabilities,” Humaid told Anadolu. Dozens of vessels have recently departed North African and European ports for Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
On Sept. 16, the International Committee for Breaking the Siege of Gaza announced a planned gathering near Malta to sail together. The flotilla represents the largest effort to reach Gaza, where 2.4 million Palestinians live under an 18-year Israeli blockade.
Israel has historically intercepted Gaza-bound ships, seizing vessels and deporting activists attempting passage to the enclave. UN investigators recently concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, where nearly 65,300 people have died since October 2023.