Drone attacks Gaza flotilla in Tunisia, organizers report

The organizers of a Gaza aid flotilla reported that a drone struck one of the ships as it passed through Tunisian waters, causing a fire on the main deck. Tunisian officials disputed this, stating that the explosion originated from inside the vessel.

The Global Sumud Flotilla affirmed their commitment to their peaceful mission despite the incident, stating that the aggression would not deter them from breaking the siege on Gaza and showing solidarity with its people. The explosion caused fire damage to the Portuguese-flagged boat's main and below-deck areas, but all six passengers and crew members are safe.

The flotilla, consisting of around 20 boats and participants from 44 countries, including activist Greta Thunberg, aims to challenge the Israeli blockade of Gaza, making it the largest civilian maritime effort to do so.

Tunisian officials refuted the drone attack claim, asserting that the explosion happened inside the vessel. Crew member Miguel Duarte described the suspected drone dropping a bomb on the ship's forward deck, emphasizing the potential danger faced by the crew.

Following the incident, crew members sought help and activated the fire alarm. Demonstrators gathered at the port of Tunis, waving Palestinian and Turkish flags and chanting "Free Palestine." The incident raised concerns about potential assaults on Tunisian sovereignty if confirmed as a drone attack.

In the past, Israeli forces had intercepted aid ships bound for Gaza, resulting in casualties and global condemnation. The recent incident adds to tensions in the region, with ongoing concerns about the impact of the blockade on Gaza's population and the need for humanitarian aid.