Israeli drones attack Gaza aid flotilla in international waters

A group of activists organizing a humanitarian mission to Gaza reported that their aid vessel was targeted by Israeli drones in international waters off Malta on Friday, as it was en route to the Palestinian territory. The ship, named Conscience, is part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a group challenging Israel’s blockade of Gaza.

The attack occurred at 00:23 local time and involved armed drones striking the unarmed civilian vessel, causing significant damage, including a fire and a breach in the hull. The activists blamed Israel for the assault and called for Israeli ambassadors to be held accountable for violations of international law, particularly the ongoing blockade and the attack on their vessel.

The group, which includes activists from 21 countries, was on a mission to deliver crucial humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge what they describe as Israel’s illegal siege. While Israel has not responded to the accusations, the group noted that the drone strike appeared to target the boat's generator, leaving the vessel without power and at risk of sinking.

According to the Maltese government, all individuals aboard the flotilla are safe. The vessel had 12 crew members and four passengers, with no casualties reported. A nearby tugboat was dispatched to assist, and fire suppression operations were carried out. By 1:28 am, the fire was under control, and by 2:13 am, all crew members were confirmed safe. The ship remains in international waters and continues to be monitored by authorities.

Since March, Israel has blocked all aid deliveries to Gaza, and after a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war collapsed, military operations resumed in mid-March. A similar aid flotilla in 2010 ended tragically when Israeli forces stormed the Mavi Marmara, killing 10 people and injuring 28. The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths, with the latest figures from Gaza’s health ministry stating that at least 52,418 people have died since the war's outbreak.