The National Union of Tunisian Journalists condemned the kidnapping of several Tunisian journalists participating in the “Resilience Flotilla” to break the siege of Gaza, describing what they suffered as a “blatant assault” by Israeli occupation forces and a flagrant violation of international laws and agreements that guarantee press freedom and the protection of journalists in conflict zones.

The union held the occupation fully responsible for the physical and psychological safety of the journalists, affirming its “complete and unconditional” solidarity with them, and pointed out that their participation in this humanitarian initiative represents “professional and courageous struggle” embodying the core message of journalism based on advocating truth and justice.

The union clarified that the assault targeted dozens of journalists from various countries, including Tunisians: Yassine Al-Qaidi (photojournalist), Lotfi Hajji (journalist), Anis Al-Abbasi (photojournalist), Olfa Lamloum (journalist), and Mazen Abdel-Lawi (student at the Institute of Journalism).

The union confirmed that the presence of Tunisian journalists in the “Resilience Flotilla” reflects the engagement of Tunisian journalism in just causes and its rejection of “silent neutrality” towards crimes committed against civilians in Gaza.

In its statement, the union demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detained journalists and civilians, and called on the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take urgent action through diplomatic channels to ensure their safety and secure their return.

It also emphasized the need to allocate broad and continuous media coverage to the flotilla issue and its repercussions, and to document the professional and activist experience of the participating journalists.

The union called on Tunisian and international journalists to actively engage in the “media front” to break the siege on Gaza, whether through field coverage or professional platforms.

It also announced the organization of solidarity sit-ins with the kidnapped journalists inside Tunisian media institutions starting from 1 PM, with participation in all movements supporting the Resilience Flotilla and the Palestinian people.