The International Committee to Break the Blockade on Gaza has called on authorities in Tunisia to release seven activists from the Global Resistance Fleet who were detained a week ago on charges of money laundering. The detained activists are Tunisian citizens and include Wael Nawar, his wife Jawaher Shna, Nabil Shnoufi, Ghassan Boughediri, Ghassan Henchiri, Sana Masahli, and Mohamed Amin Ben Nour. Their detention is linked to preparations for a new fleet aimed at breaking the blockade on Gaza, according to the committee's statement made via Facebook.

The committee emphasized that the arrests represent a continuation of Tunisia's crackdown on activists, particularly those involved in humanitarian efforts supporting the Palestinian citizens of Gaza. They assert that the work of these activists falls within the scope of humanitarian action and should not be subjected to legal actions. The claims of money laundering have raised significant concerns regarding freedom of expression and association, especially as these activists were only preparing for a peaceful mission.

Furthermore, the Maghreb Resistance Fleet, part of the International Committee, echoed these calls for the release of the detained activists. They label the arrests as an extension of security repression against organizers of the Resistance Fleet in Tunisia and the broader movement supporting Palestine. The event is part of a larger narrative where activists face increasing scrutiny and restrictions while advocating for Palestinian rights, amidst geopolitical tensions in the region.