Athens: Organisers of the Gaza bound Sumud flotilla reported late Tuesday that multiple drones targeted their aid vessels off Greece, causing explosions, communications jamming, and panic among participants.
The Global Sumud Flotilla said “unidentified objects” were dropped on several boats, though no casualties were confirmed. Activists described the strikes as “psychological operations” but vowed not to be intimidated.
German human rights activist Yasemin Acar said five vessels were hit, stressing the flotilla carried only humanitarian aid and posed “no threat.” Videos posted online showed explosions and alleged drone activity. Brazilian activist Thiago Avila said four boats were “targeted with drones throwing devices” as blasts echoed in the background.
The flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona earlier this month, consists of 51 vessels and is currently near Crete. It aims to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza and deliver supplies amid worsening humanitarian conditions.
The convoy, which includes prominent figures such as Greta Thunberg, has already survived suspected drone attacks in Tunisia. Israel, however, reiterated Monday it would not allow the boats to reach Gaza, having blocked two similar attempts in June and July.
The attacks come as Israel faces mounting international criticism over its war in Gaza. The United Nations recently declared famine in parts of the territory and, on September 16, investigators accused Israel of committing “genocide.”
