Activists Report Drone Attack on Humanitarian Ship Heading to Gaza

In a dangerous incident off Malta's coast, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that their ship, intended to deliver aid to Gaza, was struck by drones, which they claim may have been Israeli forces. The incident has heightened tensions surrounding Israel's blockade of Gaza.

Activists from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition have reported that their humanitarian ship, The Conscience, was allegedly targeted by drones while navigating international waters near Malta. The attack occurred at 00:23 local time on Friday, prompting the crew to issue an SOS signal immediately thereafter. Recordings received by the media feature distress calls from a crew member on a nearby tanker, indicating that the crew reported drone strikes and a fire onboard the vessel.

Officials from the Maltese government confirmed that all twelve crew members and four activists aboard the ship were safe and that the fire was contained overnight. The ship had been preparing to set sail toward Gaza with several notable activists onboard, including climate advocate Greta Thunberg, aiming to break what they describe as Israel's unlawful siege and blockade of Gaza.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has urged international action, calling for Israeli representatives to respond to allegations of violations of international law, stemming from the blockade and now the aggression toward a civilian vessel. The Israeli military has stated it is investigating the incident.

Surya McEwen, a volunteer for the coalition, expressed concern over the situation, referring to the event as an unprovoked attack on a humanitarian mission and indicating that, despite the chaos, there have been no reported major injuries among the crew or passengers.

Thunberg, speaking from Valetta, noted her involvement in the mission, saying, "We will continue to fight for humanitarian corridors and advocate for a free Palestine," emphasizing that their resolve to aid the people of Gaza remains strong. The activists noted that the ship suffered damage, including a compromised hull, which prevented it from being moved quickly after the attack.

In response to the distress signal, Malta dispatched a tugboat to assist, which reportedly contained the fire by 01:28. Meanwhile, Cyprus also responded but was unable to provide essential power support. Datasheets indicate that the Conscience, previously docked in Tunisia, remains approximately 12-14 nautical miles off Malta.

The ongoing blockade of Gaza has since led to a deteriorating humanitarian situation, with recent reports highlighting shortages in food and medicine following Israeli military actions that resumed after an initial ceasefire. The Red Cross has described the humanitarian conditions in Gaza as nearing "total collapse," underscoring the urgent need for international aid and intervention.

As the situation unfolds, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and activists continue to demand immediate release from the blockade, citing escalating casualties and human suffering amid the ongoing conflict in the region.