Full Breakdown
Tunisian Hunger Striker Near Death After 39 Days in Detention
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Wael Naouar, a Gaza-solidarity activist, has been hospitalized after a 39-day hunger strike while held in pre-trial detention in Tunisia. According to the Gaza Sumud Flotilla organization, Naouar was admitted to a hospital in critical condition, with reports of fainting, breathing difficulties, and hallucinations. The strike was launched to demand the dismissal of charges of financial misconduct levied against him and three fellow activists.
Background & Context
The four activists—Wael Naouar, Ghassen Henchiri, Ghassen Boughdiri and Nabil Channoufi—were arrested in March following accusations of misusing funds raised for the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international campaign that seeks to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. The flotilla itself set sail last September, was intercepted by Israel, and its participants were subsequently deported to Tunisia. None of the four have been convicted; they remain under investigation and in pre-trial detention.
Official Statements & Responses
Bassem Trifi, head of the Tunisian League for the Defence of Human Rights (LTDH), described Naouar’s health as “very critical” and said he is “on the verge of death.” A prison spokesperson declined to comment on the case. The Gaza Sumud Flotilla issued a statement on X noting that a judge had rejected an appeal to end the activists’ pre-trial detention and that authorities have withheld information from Naouar’s family and lawyers. Ghassen Bouaazi of the National Committee for the Defence of Sumud Flotilla Activists warned that Naouar faces a “real danger” and highlighted the lack of transparency from Tunisian officials.
Data & Statistics
- Hunger strike duration: 39 days.
- Reported weight loss: more than 20 kg (44 lb).
- Number of activists detained: four.
- Arrests during a related protest: at least 11 people.
Why It Matters
Naouar’s deteriorating condition underscores concerns about the treatment of political detainees and the use of pre-trial detention in Tunisia. Human-rights groups view the case as part of broader tensions surrounding pro-Palestinian activism, alleged financial irregularities, and the legal handling of activists linked to the Gaza flotilla. The situation has prompted public protests and calls for greater transparency from Tunisian authorities.