Italy Dispatches Navy Frigate After Gaza Aid Flotilla Reports Drone Attacks

The Global Sumud Flotilla, an international convoy of approximately 50 vessels carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, reported that several of its boats were attacked by unidentified drones while sailing south of Greece. The flotilla stated that at least 13 explosions were heard, and drones or aircraft dropped unidentified objects on at least 10 boats, causing damage but no casualties. Communications were also reportedly jammed during the incident.

In response, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced the deployment of the navy frigate Fasan, which was sailing north of Crete, to the area for potential rescue operations. Crosetto condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to protect peaceful demonstrations conducted in accordance with international law.

The European Union also expressed concern, with spokesperson Eva Hrncirova stating that any use of force against the flotilla is unacceptable and that the freedom of navigation under international law must be upheld.

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, aboard one of the flotilla's boats, described the strikes as a scare tactic and affirmed the group's commitment to their mission. She noted that the most important focus should be on the situation in Gaza rather than the attacks on the flotilla.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has accused the flotilla's organizers of being linked to Hamas, an allegation the organizers deny. Israel has proposed that the aid be unloaded at the Israeli port of Ashkelon for transportation into Gaza, stating that it will not allow vessels to breach its naval blockade.

This incident follows previous reports of attacks on the flotilla, including two while some of its boats were in Tunisian waters. The convoy claims to be the largest attempt to date to break the Israeli maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip, which has been in place for 18 years.