Maghreb Gaza convoy plans return to Tunisia after release of activists in Libya

Organizers of the “Sumoud” convoy, launched to raise awareness about Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, have announced the group will return to Tunisia after being blocked from proceeding through Libya.

The Joint Action Coordination for Palestine, which organized the march, told Al Jazeera Arabic that the decision was made after forces loyal to eastern Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar prevented the convoy from advancing through the city of Sirte. Haftar’s forces cited the lack of necessary security clearance from Egyptian authorities, who reportedly coordinate closely with the Eastern Libyan leader.

The convoy, comprising approximately 1,500 activists from across the Maghreb, left Tunis on June 9^th. But they faced mounting obstacles in eastern Libya. Activists were reportedly placed under a blockade, with restricted access to food, water, and medical supplies. Several members were also detained.

Convoy spokesman Wael Nawar told Al Jazeera that 15 participants from Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria remain in custody.

“The convoy is peaceful and will remain peaceful. We will remain on the spot peacefully waiting,” Nawar said, vowing not to leave Libya until the detained activists are released.

Meanwhile, a separate protest group associated with the Global March to Gaza was also blocked—this time by Egyptian authorities—from reaching the Rafah border crossing. Many of its members have since been deported, and organizers have suspended the march until Egypt grants formal authorization.