A flotilla attempting to break Israel’s aid blockade of Gaza has claimed it was targeted by a drone for the second time in less than a day.
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), carrying pro-Palestinian activists including Greta Thunberg, said in a statement early on Wednesday that one of its vessels, the British-flagged Alma, was struck while moored in the Tunisian port of Sidi Bou Said. The group alleged that a drone dropped an incendiary device onto the boat, causing a fire on its top deck. No injuries were reported and the vessel sustained no structural damage.
A video posted by the flotilla on Instagram appeared to show a luminous object hitting the Alma, followed by flames. The footage has not been independently verified. The GSF said an investigation was under way.
The incident follows a similar claim on Tuesday, when the group reported that another of its vessels had been hit by a drone in Tunisian waters. Tunisia’s interior ministry rejected that account, stating there was “no basis in truth” and that a fire had broken out on the vessel without external involvement. The Tunisian coastguard has not commented.
Later on Wednesday, the GSF released an image of what it described as a “charred electronic device” recovered from the deck, saying it suggested deliberate targeting. Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian territories, shared video of the burning Alma and said it indicated a drone attack. She cited “authoritative sources” as suggesting the use of an incendiary grenade wrapped in fuel-soaked plastic.
Speaking from the Alma, activist Thiago Ávila said the incident would not deter the mission. “We know what’s happening is outrageous, but it’s nothing compared to what Palestinians have endured for the past 22 months,” he said.
The Alma, a 33-metre vessel and one of the largest in the Spanish delegation, had been anchored alongside the flotilla’s flagship Family awaiting favourable conditions to join the Italian delegation in Sicily before sailing together towards Gaza.
The GSF, supported by delegations from 44 countries, includes Thunberg and Portuguese politician Mariana Mortágua. Four Italian politicians, an MP, a senator and two MEPs are expected to join. Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, said he would speak with his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, and pledged consular support for Italians involved.
Israel has enforced a blockade on Gaza since Hamas took control in 2007, citing the need to prevent weapons smuggling. Restrictions on food and aid have tightened during the current conflict, with famine reported in parts of the enclave.
