Athens, Greece — Organizers of a flotilla aimed at delivering aid to Gaza reported multiple attacks on their vessels, including explosions and drone activity, as they remained anchored near the Greek coast. The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprised of pro-Palestinian activists, described the incidents as attempts to intimidate and disrupt their mission.
According to their statements, several boats experienced explosions and harmful drone engagements, with communications reportedly disrupted by intermittent jamming. The activist group expressed defiance, stating they would not back down in the face of these intimidation tactics.
German human rights activist Yasemin Acar shared the details of the incidents through a video on social media, indicating that five of the flotilla’s boats were struck. She reported seeing between 15 to 16 drones overhead, with loud music interfering with their communication.
Video evidence shared by the flotilla showed one explosion taking place on a vessel named the Spectre. Brazilian activist Thiago Avila also reported drone strikes targeting their boats, which coincided with the sound of further explosions.
Earlier this month, the flotilla encountered drone strikes while docked in Tunisia, although reports of those incidents were met with skepticism from the Tunisian government, which claimed at least one allegation lacked truth.
The flotilla, which includes prominent figures such as Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, set out from Barcelona in late August with the goal of breaking what they describe as an illegal blockade of Gaza. The group currently comprises 51 vessels, the majority of which are located near the island of Crete.
In response to the flotilla, Israeli officials announced they would not permit the boats to reach Gaza. This follows previous incidents in June and July, where activists attempting to deliver aid via sea were turned back. The ongoing tension surrounding the flotilla underscores the volatility of the regional situation and the continued struggle for humanitarian access amid conflict.