Humanitarian Aid Ship To Gaza Assaulted By Drone Swarm

A ship carrying aid to Gaza came under drone attack in international waters, raising tensions as activists blame Israel for deliberately targeting humanitarian efforts.

Key Insights

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship “Conscience” was attacked by drones in international waters near Malta, causing a fire and hull breach
All 16 people aboard survived the attack with no casualties reported, according to Maltese authorities
The mission was intended to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid amid severe shortages
The coalition blames Israel for the attack, though Israeli officials have not commented on the allegations

Attack in International Waters

A vessel carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza was struck by drone attacks while operating in international waters near Malta. The ship, named “Conscience,” part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, reported being hit at 00:23 Maltese time. According to reports, armed drones targeted the ship twice, causing significant damage to the vessel. The coalition immediately blamed Israel for the attack, though Israeli authorities have not commented on the allegations.

The strike reportedly targeted the boat’s generator, leaving it without power and at risk of sinking. Despite the damage, all crew members and civilians aboard survived the attack without injuries. Maltese authorities responded to a distress call from the vessel and dispatched rescue craft to the scene.

Mission and Response

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition organized the mission to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian supplies to the region. The ship had departed from Tunisia and was heading to Malta to pick up additional activists, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, before continuing to Gaza. The mission was conducted under a media blackout to avoid potential sabotage.

The Maltese government reported that 16 people were aboard the vessel—12 crew members and four civilians—though the coalition claimed the number was closer to 30. Following the attack, those aboard declined offers to abandon ship despite the damage. Maltese authorities dispatched a patrol vessel and a nearby tug to assist with firefighting operations.

History of Flotilla Missions

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has a history of attempting to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza, with previous missions resulting in confrontations with Israeli forces. In 2010, a similar mission ended tragically when Israeli commandos stormed the Mavi Marmara ship, resulting in the deaths of 10 activists. Other missions have been intercepted without loss of life but have consistently failed to reach Gaza with supplies.

The coalition involves volunteers from over 21 countries and includes prominent activists. Greta Thunberg confirmed she was scheduled to board the vessel in Malta before continuing to Gaza, stating the attack caused major damage that has prevented the mission from proceeding.

“I was part of the group who was supposed to board that boat today to continue the voyage towards Gaza, which is one of many attempts to open up a humanitarian corridor and to do our part to keep trying to break Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza,” said Thunberg.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The attack occurs against the backdrop of a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel imposed a blockade on the territory, restricting the entry of food, fuel, and medicine. Humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza report critically low supplies, with many kitchens expected to close due to lack of resources. The International Committee of the Red Cross has warned of chaos without immediate aid deliveries.

Medical workers in Gaza are prioritizing serious cases due to limited supplies, while a UN team assesses malnutrition and famine risks in the region. The conflict intensified following a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023, resulting in significant civilian casualties on both sides and leading to the current restrictions on humanitarian aid.

Israeli officials claim Hamas steals incoming aid, while aid officials in Gaza deny widespread theft. Recent media reports suggest a plan to use private contractors for aid distribution, a proposal criticized by humanitarian officials as unworkable given the current conditions in Gaza.