Libyan forces detain Gaza aid convoy near Sirte

A humanitarian convoy intended to deliver aid to Gaza, composed of roughly two hundred pro‑Gaza activists from various countries, was stopped at a checkpoint near Sirte, Libya. Forces loyal to General Khalifa Haftar, who controls much of eastern and southern Libya, detained the convoy, seized several vehicles and forced the activists onto buses.

According to eyewitness reports and statements from the Italian spokesperson for the Sumoud organization, the convoy was violently attacked; tents were rammed by unidentified vehicles, activists were beaten, some lost consciousness, and ten were taken into custody. The detained individuals were reportedly moved toward the western port city of Misrata, where militia control is fragmented.

The incident has raised concerns among United Nations officials and humanitarian agencies about the impediment to the free passage of aid destined for Gaza, already suffering a severe humanitarian crisis. International law stresses unimpeded humanitarian relief, and the detention highlights the security and governance challenges that hamper aid routes through Libya.