(MENAFN) The Global Sumud Flotilla, destined for Gaza, altered its route on Thursday, heading instead to the northern Tunisian harbor of Bizerte after turbulent waters disrupted its planned departure from Sidi Bou Said.

Mohamed Amin Bennour, a member of the steering committee, told an official news agency that the change in course was necessary because conditions were unsafe for small and medium-sized vessels to sail directly from the coastal town near Tunis.

“We are moving to Bizerte to finalize preparations before heading toward Gaza on Friday,” he stated.

Another organizer, Nabil Chennoufi, emphasized to a news outlet that the delay was entirely due to weather conditions and not related to security issues, highlighting that Tunisian authorities had already approved the convoy.

The flotilla comprises roughly 36 ships carrying between 500 and 700 activists from more than 40 countries. Organizers mentioned that additional boats from Italy and Spain are anticipated to join along the route, and an Egyptian vessel has also received clearance to participate.

On Wednesday, thousands of Tunisians gathered at Sidi Bou Said to show their support for the mission, waving Palestinian and Tunisian flags and chanting against Israel’s blockade of Gaza.

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