Gunfire at Gaza aid boat in Tunisian port denied by Tunisian authorities
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In an unexpected turn of events, the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), an international initiative aiming to break Israel's naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, has faced a setback. On Tuesday, the GSF reported that one of its main boats was struck at Sidi Bou Said port in Tunisia.
According to the GSF's statement, the Portuguese-flagged boat carrying the flotilla's steering committee was the vessel targeted. The nature of the damage to the boat was not specified beyond fire damage to the main deck and below-deck storage. The exact cause of the fire is not known.
A video posted by the GSF shows the moment the boat was struck from above, with a luminous flying object hitting the vessel and smoke rising soon after. The organizers of the flotilla attribute the attack to "Zionist aggression," implying responsibility on Israeli actors. However, Tunisia's interior ministry denies reports of a drone hitting a boat at Sidi Bou Said port, suggesting the fire was caused by burning life jackets on board.
The flotilla is supported by delegations from 44 countries and includes prominent figures such as Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and Portuguese left-wing politician Mariana Mortagua. After the incident, dozens of people gathered outside the port, waving Palestinian flags and chanting "Free Palestine."
The incident involved six passengers and crew members on the boat, who remained safe. The nature of the damage to the "Family Boat," another vessel in the flotilla, beyond fire damage is not specified.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, launched in July, aims to challenge the Israeli naval blockade that has been in place since 2007. The blockade has significantly impacted the lives of people in Gaza, restricting access to essential goods and services. The flotilla's mission is to deliver humanitarian aid and raise international awareness about the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
