In brief
The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of 20 boats on a humanitarian mission to Gaza, faced drone attacks while in Tunisian waters for the second night in a row. No injuries were reported. Activists claim the attacks coincide with heightened Israeli hostility toward Palestinians and assert their commitment to continue their mission.
TUNIS, Tunisia (AP) — An international activist flotilla seeking to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza said Wednesday it was attacked for the second night in a row. The Global Sumud Flotilla reported that one of its vessels, the British-flagged 'Alma,' came under drone attack while docked in Tunisian waters. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Security footage released by the group showed activists on board shouting 'fire' and pointing at the sky as burning projectiles fell on the deck, causing explosions and igniting a blaze.This incident mirrored a previous attack on the Portuguese-flagged 'Family' vessel the night before. Tunisian authorities initially denied claims that the first attack was linked to drones and stated that an investigation was underway. No immediate comments regarding the second incident had been made.The flotilla, which includes approximately 20 boats that set sail from Barcelona on September 1 with a symbolic cargo of humanitarian aid, intended to make a stop in Tunisia before heading to Gaza.In response to the repeated attacks, activists stated, 'These attacks come during intensified Israeli aggression on Palestinians in Gaza, and are an orchestrated attempt to distract and derail our mission.' Despite the challenges, the Global Sumud Flotilla remains determined to continue its efforts. No immediate response from Israeli authorities was available.
