Humanitarian fleet for Gaza reports drone attack, Tunisia denies this

The international initiative Global Sumud Fleet for Gaza (GSF) announced that its main ship had been hit by a drone in Tunisian waters. There were six passengers and the crew on board, all of whom remained unharmed.

The Portuguese-flagged ship suffered damage to its main deck and below-deck storage areas. However, Tunisian authorities denied the drone attack, with the National Guard stating that the explosion occurred inside the ship.

The fleet, which is supported by delegations from 44 countries, including activist Greta Thunberg and Portuguese politician Mariana Mortágua, has set itself the goal of bringing humanitarian aid to Gaza despite the Israeli blockade.
After the incident, dozens of people gathered in front of the port of Sidi Bou Said with slogans such as “Freedom for Palestine.”

Israel has imposed a naval blockade on the coastal enclave since Hamas took power in Gaza in 2007, saying it is to prevent weapons being delivered to the militant group. The blockade continues during conflicts, including the current war, which began with a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023.

(reuters, max)