Tunisians protest in support of detained Nawgan Sumud activists
Thousands call for the release of four Nawgan Sumud activists detained over funding and organizing activities
Thousands in Tunisia protested in support of four Nawgan Sumud activists detained since March on money-laundering and fundraising-related charges. Protests called for their release as organizers and rights groups questioned political motives and noted hunger strikes and past maritime incidents involving Nawgan Sumud.
Tehran — IRNA reports, citing Russia Today, that thousands of Tunisians gathered Saturday night to demand the release of four activists detained in March in connection with allegations of money laundering and misuse of funds tied to the Nawgan Sumud movement. The protesters urged freedom for Wael Nawar, Ghassan Al-Boghdiery, Nabil Al-Shanufi, and Ghassan Al-Heneshiri, who were detained as they prepared for a new voyage from Tunisia to Gaza. Organizers say the detention is unacceptable and note that the detainees have begun a hunger strike in protest of their conditions. Bassem Tarifi, head of the Tunisian Association for Human Rights, described the case as politically motivated and said detainees are being treated like prisoners of conscience. He added that Palestine enjoys broad public support in Tunisia and suggested external pressure may be involved. Ghassan Bouazi argued the detentions are part of a broader campaign against political opponents, civil society and journalists, potentially with foreign influence. The Nawgan Sumud movement contends its campaigns are peaceful and oppose the Gaza blockade and the hardship it imposes on Gaza’s people. Last year, Nawgan Sumud ships were attacked by two drones near Sidi Bou Said; the Israeli navy intercepted vessels, detained participants and expelled them. Tunisian authorities arrested several Nawgan Sumud executives in March 2026; three were later released, four remain detained. Since then, rights groups and families have continued calling for the detainees’ release.