Tripoli: The Libyan vessel Omar al-Mukhtar has set sail to join the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aims to break Israel's blockade on the Gaza Strip. The ship has been equipped with an intensive care unit to provide health services for the fleet. Its departure was delayed due to bad weather conditions earlier in the week, according to the ship's spokesperson, Nabil al-Soukni.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Omar al-Mukhtar is now fully equipped and has increased its storage of supplies to support smaller boats that are understocked. The ship has also allocated space for activists from boats deemed unfit to reach Gaza. It carries tents, medicines, baby formula, and various supplies for all age groups in the enclave. The participation of prominent figures such as former Libyan Prime Minister Omar al-Hassi and international activists has boosted the morale of the crew.

Abdel Rahman Humaid, the medical officer aboard the ship, stated that an accompanying health team and an intensive care unit have been set up to provide medical services to the international flotilla. The effort is part of a larger initiative involving dozens of ships from North African and European ports, aiming to break the Israeli blockade.

On September 16, the International Committee for Breaking the Siege of Gaza announced that the flotilla's ships would assemble near Malta before sailing together toward Gaza. This represents the largest attempt of its kind to reach the area, home to 2.4 million Palestinians living under an 18-year Israeli blockade. Previous attempts have been intercepted by Israel, with vessels seized and passengers deported.

UN investigators recently concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, where nearly 65,300 people have been killed since October 2023.