Tonight, the Viva Palestina aid convoy is spending the night in Al Arish close to the Rafah crossing after an eventful day. At one point everything seemed to point out to a smooth crossing until they hit new obstacles, which were not resolved later in the day (see earlier posts)

Some Libyan trucks carrying medical aid have been allowed through. There is a consensus though amongst the members of the convoy that no vehicle will go through any Israeli controlled crossing. The motto is 'ALL for one and one for ALL'.

They are hopeful that early in the morning, they will start their final leg of a very long journey and roll into Gaza - where thousands of Palestinians have waited all day at the gates of Rafah to greet and welcome them.

Children were left in tears, disappointed on hearing the news that their heroes were being prevented from crossing.

I am told by team leaders that a security system has been set up to ensure the safety of the convoy members tonight. Relatives should not be worried, everybody is pulling together and the spirits remain high.

I am also told that the Egyptian Red Crescent is in the process of unloading some vehicles of food and clothing destined to the Gaza people. Some vans have completely been emptied.

Negotiations will resume in the morning as to the inclusion of the fire engine, the generator and the boat in the crossing.

The world is watching an event of epic proportions. The Egyptian people would love to see a bunch of brave men and women - who have travelled so far and got so close to achieving their goal and completing their mission - be allowed to deliver their aid and be embraced by the people of Gaza.

Farid Arada