Former Libyan Prime Minister Omar al-Hassi has announced the launch of the “Omar al-Mukhtar Flotilla” from the Libyan coast to join international efforts aimed at breaking the 18-year blockade on the Gaza Strip.
The announcement was made at a press conference held in central Tripoli, attended by national and human rights figures alongside Arab and international activists. Al-Hassi said the Libyan flotilla would carry Libyan and international volunteers, stressing that the mission is peaceful and humanitarian, seeking to deliver urgent relief to the besieged enclave.
“The flotilla will transport food, medicines, water, clothing and winter supplies,” al-Hassi explained, adding that Palestine no longer needs “passing speeches” but a serious international project to support the rights of its people.
The Omar al-Mukhtar Flotilla will set sail once international convoys pass the Libyan coast, expected early next week. The wider “Flotilla of Steadfastness” includes over 50 vessels of different sizes, with ships already departing from Barcelona and Genoa, while a Tunisian convoy is due to join in the coming days.
The coalition of groups organising the campaign includes the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Global Gaza Movement, the Convoy of Steadfastness and Malaysia’s Nusantara Solidarity.
Al-Hassi emphasised that the effort represents Libya’s commitment to stand with the Palestinian people, while highlighting the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza caused by the blockade and ongoing Israeli assault.
Since 7 October 2023, more than 64,000 Palestinians have been killed and 162,000 injured, the majority women and children, with thousands missing and millions displaced. The siege has also triggered famine conditions that have claimed hundreds of civilian lives, including dozens of children.
The flotilla’s organisers insist the mission is rooted in international solidarity and humanitarian principles, rejecting any form of violence.
