The Global Sumud Flotilla claims a second ship was struck by drones en route to Gaza, with Israel accused of sabotage, while Tunisian authorities dismiss the allegation as a “false alarm.”
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) — an international convoy attempting to break Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza — reported that a second vessel was struck in a suspected drone attack early Wednesday, marking the second consecutive night of alleged incidents.
“Another boat has been hit. Second night, second drone attack,” flotilla coordinator Melanie Schweizer told AFP, echoing posts made on the group’s social media channels.
Videos, Claims, and Denials
Security footage released by organizers showed a humming noise followed by a flash of light, with another clip capturing crew members reacting to what they described as an explosion.
However, Tunisian authorities flatly denied the claim, saying no drones were detected, and suggested the fire originated from life jackets ignited by a cigarette.
Flotilla spokesperson Saif Abukeshek insisted otherwise:
“There is no other authority that would do such an attack, such a crime, except the Israeli authorities.”
20 Vessels, High-Profile Names
The flotilla, comprised of 20 vessels, left Barcelona last Monday, docking in Tunisia on Sunday to pick up more supplies before heading toward Gaza. Organizers delayed departure from Tunis until Wednesday, citing “technical and logistical reasons beyond management’s control.”
On board are prominent figures including:
- Greta Thunberg, the Swedish climate activist deported by Israel in June after joining another Gaza-bound flotilla.
- Ada Colau, former Barcelona mayor who cut ties with Israel during her term.
- Hollywood celebrities such as Susan Sarandon and Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones).
Israel’s Past Interceptions
The IDF previously intercepted Thunberg’s flotilla, the Madleen, providing activists with food and water before deporting them. Israel later revealed the vessel carried less than a single truckload of aid, which was redirected into Gaza through official humanitarian channels.
