Tunisian demonstrators rally for release of four detained Sumud activists

On Saturday, a crowd of demonstrators gathered in central Tunis, moving from the SNJT building to Avenue Habib Bourguiba while displaying Tunisian and Palestinian flags and portraits of four detained Global Sumod Flotilla activists. They called for the immediate release of Wael Naouar, Ghassen Henchiri, Ghassen Boughdiri and Nabil Channoufi, whose pre-trial detention was prolonged by another four months. The activists, who reject the allegations of financial irregularities tied to flotilla fundraising, have become symbols of a broader crackdown on civil society.

Naouar began an indefinite hunger strike on 16 August; his condition has worsened, with reports of fainting, breathing difficulties, hallucinations and a weight loss of over 20 kg. Supporters blame President Kais Saied and his administration for the deteriorating health of the detainees and for employing anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism laws to target critics. The protest also echoed calls from former UGET leaders for a wider mobilization of students, trade unions and rights groups to pressure the authorities.