Unidentified drone strikes humanitarian vessel in Tunisian waters, according to activist group; authorities dismiss allegations
In the heart of Tunis, the main ship of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian effort aimed at delivering aid to Gaza in defiance of Israel's maritime blockade, was reportedly attacked. The incident, which occurred on board, led to fires, but thankfully, all onboard were unharmed.
The organizers of the flotilla suggest that the attack was an Israeli drone attack, a claim that Israeli media have dismissed as a technical defect. However, Tunisian authorities found no evidence of drones during their investigation. The Global Sumud Flotilla reported that one of its boats, the "Family," was hit by a drone while docked in Tunisia. Portuguese activist Miguel Duarte claimed to have seen a drone just meters above his head before an explosion.
The "Family" boat was carrying famous members such as Greta Thunberg and Ada Colau, although it's unclear if they were on board during the reported attack. The flotilla, scheduled to leave Tunisia on Wednesday, has seen an increase in volunteers despite the incident. Thiago Avila, an activist, stated that the flotilla continues its mission undeterred.
The war in Gaza, which began when Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people on Oct. 7, 2023, and killed some 1,200 people, mostly Israeli civilians, has led to a humanitarian crisis. Last month, the world's leading authority on food crises stated that Gaza's largest city is experiencing famine, likely to spread across the territory, without a ceasefire and an end to restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Israel has previously dismissed such efforts as publicity stunts, stating that a blockade is necessary to prevent smuggling, particularly of weapons. However, the flotilla's presence, with doctors, artists, clergy, and European politicians on board, is intended to spotlight the blockade and Israel's moves to enforce it.
The Global Sumud Flotilla's voyage is three months after a smaller activist flotilla crossed the Mediterranean. An overland convoy traveling across North Africa was blocked by security forces aligned with Egypt in eastern Libya. Despite these obstacles, the flotilla remains determined to deliver aid to those in need in Gaza.
