A Gaza-bound aid ship carrying humanitarian supplies and activists was attacked by drones in international waters off the coast of Malta early on Friday, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, an international non-governmental organization. The group accused Israel of being responsible for the drone strike, but Israel’s foreign ministry has yet to comment on the allegation.
The Maltese government confirmed the incident, stating that the vessel and its crew were safely secured after firefighting efforts by a nearby tugboat. Turkey’s foreign ministry also expressed strong condemnation, noting that Turkish nationals were on board at the time of the attack and that efforts were underway to ensure their safe relocation.
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who was in Malta, revealed she had planned to join the Freedom Flotilla’s mission in solidarity with the besieged Gaza Strip. Thunberg condemned the attack, highlighting the growing international outcry over the escalation of violence and the ongoing blockade of Gaza.
The NGO released dark footage showing the vessel, named “Conscience,” on fire, accompanied by explosions and flashes in the sky. The group called for accountability from Israeli authorities, accusing them of violating international law by targeting a civilian vessel in international waters.
This latest attack comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas, with a ceasefire breaking down in March, leading to a resumption of military operations in Gaza.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has vowed to continue its efforts to bring global attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for justice and the immediate cessation of the blockade.
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