Five Tunisian activists associated with the pro-Palestinian Global Sumud Flotilla initiative have been detained by security forces in the coastal town of Sidi Bou Saïd, according to statements released by organisers of the campaign. The group said the individuals were involved in preparations for a maritime mission planned for later this year aimed at delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

Those arrested were identified as Nabil Channoufi, Wael Naouar, Sana Msahli, Jawaher Channa and Mohamed Amin Bannour. Activists said the arrests took place after police blocked them from entering the port area earlier in the week, where logistical preparations for the flotilla were reportedly under way. The organisation has demanded immediate clarification from Tunisian authorities regarding the reasons behind the detentions.

The campaign also reported that a public gathering scheduled to discuss the upcoming mission was cancelled shortly before it began, following intervention by local authorities. Organisers described the actions as a troubling development in a country long associated with vocal public solidarity for the Palestinian cause.

The flotilla initiative previously attempted to reach Gaza by sea last October, seeking to challenge the blockade surrounding the territory and deliver aid supplies. That attempt ended after vessels were intercepted before reaching their destination and participants were later expelled.

Despite the setbacks, organisers have continued to promote the campaign as a non-violent effort to bring humanitarian relief to Gaza and draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis affecting the population there. Plans for a renewed mission from Mediterranean ports, including those in Tunisia, were announced earlier this year, though the recent arrests have cast uncertainty over the preparations.