Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
15 September 2025 | 09:00 CAT

📸“The Libyan ship Umar al-Mukhtar sails across the Mediterranean, carrying activists, humanitarian aid, and a message of solidarity for Gaza’s besieged population.”

A historic mission is unfolding across the Mediterranean as the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of more than 50 vessels, sets out to deliver urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge the longstanding blockade.

At the heart of this effort is the Libyan ship Umar al-Mukhtar, carrying activists, aid, and a powerful message of solidarity. British journalist Yvonne Ridley, reporting from on board, described the atmosphere as one of pride and determination. “We have the Libyan flag flying. The support and love and encouragement from the people has been fantastic,” Ridley told Radio Islam International.

The primary goal, Ridley explained, is clear: “We want to open up a humanitarian corridor across the Mediterranean Sea into the harbour of Gaza. Every single boat is carrying aid. There’s more than 50 of us now sailing towards Gaza and we simply want to get aid into Gaza that way.”

Among the supplies are over 6,000 sachets of high-protein food designed specifically for children, along with water and medicines. “It’s highly nutritious, easy to digest, and it will save lives,” Ridley said. She added that all the aid on board had been purchased with contributions from Libyan citizens.

Security remains a pressing concern, given Israel’s past record of intercepting similar convoys. “Israel has a track record for breaking international law and it has also shown that it is no respecter of maritime law. We are peace activists. We’re not carrying any weapons. We’re a threat to no one,” Ridley noted.

The flotilla has taken precautions, equipping the Umar al-Mukhtar with live-streaming capabilities and CCTV throughout the vessel. “It’s basically going to be a big brother boat at sea. If there is any piracy or illegal activities, people will be able to watch and observe,” she explained.

The mission also carries symbolic weight. Tomorrow marks the 94th anniversary of Omar al-Mukhtar’s execution by Italian colonial forces. “It’s a fitting day for us to set sail,” Ridley said, framing the journey as both humanitarian and historic.

On board are seasoned peace activists, including Libya’s first elected Prime Minister since the revolution and Scottish campaigner Margaret Posetta, who has spent 25 years advocating for Palestine.

With boats departing Tunisia and converging across the Mediterranean, the Global Sumud Flotilla represents not just an aid mission, but a visible stand of international solidarity with Gaza’s people.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat and British journalist Yvonne Ridley.