By Atoyebi Nike
A large convoy of over 1,500 activists from Algeria and Tunisia has arrived in Libya, continuing its journey to the Gaza Strip to challenge Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid. The group, traveling by cars and buses, aims to reach Gaza through Egypt’s Rafah Crossing.
The convoy arrived in Zawiya, western Libya, on Tuesday and is heading through cities including Tripoli, Misrata, and Benghazi to reach the Egyptian border at Saloum. More supporters are expected to join from Libya.
Algerian activist Jamila Sharitah said authorities in Tunisia and Libya have supported the convoy’s passage. Organizers say the mission is meant to pressure for the reopening of Gaza’s border crossings and to allow aid delivery into the besieged Palestinian territory.
Convoy leader Terkiya Shayibi said the group is undeterred by potential risks, asserting that “land, sea, and air convoys will reach Gaza despite restrictions.”
This overland mission follows Israel’s interception of a Gaza-bound aid boat carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and other campaigners, who were deported after the vessel was seized Monday.
While it remains unclear if the convoy will be allowed into Egypt, the Egyptian foreign ministry emphasized that foreign delegations must obtain prior approval and visas to access the Gaza border region, including Rafah and Arish. No special arrangements will be made outside formal procedures, the ministry said.
Photo Credit AP
