Drones Strike Gaza Aid Ship in International Waters Near Malta

A ship from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition carrying humanitarian aid and international activists to Gaza was struck by drones in international waters off Malta, causing a fire and significant damage to the vessel. The group organizing the mission, which seeks to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza, suspects Israel was behind the attack, although Israel has not officially commented on the incident. The Maltese authorities responded to the ship’s distress call, dispatched a tug to help extinguish the fire, and confirmed that all those on board were safe. While some reports allege the targeted ship may have links to Hamas, the flotilla organizers maintain their mission is peaceful and humanitarian. Activists and organizers have called for international action, demanding accountability for the attack and an end to the Gaza blockade, citing violations of international law. The incident has heightened scrutiny on the ongoing blockade and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.