The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that their ship, The Conscience, was targeted by drones just off the coast of Malta around 00:23 local time on Friday, prompting the crew to issue an SOS signal following the assault. In recordings sent to the BBC, the ship's captain can be heard detailing drone strikes and a fire breaking out onboard. Fortunately, the Maltese government later confirmed that all individuals aboard the ship were safe and that the fire was extinguished.
**Activists Claim Israeli Drones Attack Humanitarian Ship En Route to Gaza**
**Activists Claim Israeli Drones Attack Humanitarian Ship En Route to Gaza**
Activists alleged their ship was attacked by drones in international waters, accusing Israel of aggression amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which had planned to sail to Gaza with a group of activists including climate advocate Greta Thunberg, aims to challenge the Israeli blockade which confines around two million Palestinians. The organization has since called for the summoning of Israeli ambassadors by various nations to respond to what they deem a violation of international law.
Following the attack, volunteer Surya McEwen expressed concerns about losing contact with the ship, which had suffered damage and a fire, but reported no major injuries. He labeled the drone strike as an "unprovoked attack on a civilian vessel engaged in a humanitarian mission."
Thunberg, who was set to join the voyage, spoke to reporters in Valetta, emphasizing the group's dedication to advocating for a humanitarian corridor in Gaza—a response to the deteriorating living conditions following the Israeli military's blockade. She declared, "We human rights activists will continue to do everything in our power to demand a free Palestine and the opening of a humanitarian corridor."
Reports highlighted that while 12 crew and 30 activists were aboard during the attack, the situation escalated when the generators were targeted, leaving the vessel without power. The Maltese government responded swiftly by sending a tugboat to the scene. By 01:28 local time, the fire was under control, and by 2:13, the safety of the crew was confirmed, although they chose not to abandon the ship.
The Conscience had departed from Tunisia just a few days prior, attempting to navigate through high tensions in the region. The ongoing situation surrounding Gaza remains dire, with mounting international calls for aid and protests against the blockade that has left much of the population without essential supplies. As conflict continues to escalate, the humanitarian needs in Gaza are reaching critical levels.
Following the attack, volunteer Surya McEwen expressed concerns about losing contact with the ship, which had suffered damage and a fire, but reported no major injuries. He labeled the drone strike as an "unprovoked attack on a civilian vessel engaged in a humanitarian mission."
Thunberg, who was set to join the voyage, spoke to reporters in Valetta, emphasizing the group's dedication to advocating for a humanitarian corridor in Gaza—a response to the deteriorating living conditions following the Israeli military's blockade. She declared, "We human rights activists will continue to do everything in our power to demand a free Palestine and the opening of a humanitarian corridor."
Reports highlighted that while 12 crew and 30 activists were aboard during the attack, the situation escalated when the generators were targeted, leaving the vessel without power. The Maltese government responded swiftly by sending a tugboat to the scene. By 01:28 local time, the fire was under control, and by 2:13, the safety of the crew was confirmed, although they chose not to abandon the ship.
The Conscience had departed from Tunisia just a few days prior, attempting to navigate through high tensions in the region. The ongoing situation surrounding Gaza remains dire, with mounting international calls for aid and protests against the blockade that has left much of the population without essential supplies. As conflict continues to escalate, the humanitarian needs in Gaza are reaching critical levels.
