Global Sumud Flotilla Attacked by Drone While Docked in Tunisia
The Global Sumud Flotilla, an activist group focused on delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, experienced a drone attack on one of its vessels while docked in Tunisia. The incident occurred overnight, and all six passengers aboard the boat were confirmed safe. The flotilla includes notable figures such as climate activist Greta Thunberg, although it remains unclear who was present during the attack.
Details of the Drone Attack
According to the Global Sumud Flotilla, security camera footage captured the moment of the attack, showing a ball of flames descending from above and striking the vessel. Miguel Duarte, a Portuguese citizen and crew member, recounted the experience during a press conference. He stated, “Last night, I was on the deck on the back part of the ship and I heard a drone. I came out of the cover of the deck to see a drone hovering about three or four meters above my head.” Duarte described how the drone dropped a bomb, resulting in a significant fire on board.
Immediate Response to the Incident
Duarte and his fellow crew members quickly responded to the fire, utilizing fire extinguishers to bring it under control. “We picked up fire extinguishers, fought the fire successfully, and everyone was safe, fortunately,” he added. The Global Sumud Flotilla shared the security footage with the media, which has since raised questions about the nature of the attack.
Initial Denial by Tunisian Authorities
Initially, Tunisia’s National Guard denied that a drone strike had occurred. They attributed the fire to a malfunction involving a life jacket, suggesting it was caused by a lighter or a cigarette butt. The Interior Ministry echoed this sentiment, stating that claims of a drone attack were “unfounded.” They reported that specialized security units inspected the scene and found no evidence of external targeting.
However, following the release of the flotilla’s video evidence, a spokesperson for the Global Sumud Flotilla indicated that Tunisian authorities had decided to form a special committee to investigate the incident. “We appreciate the effort that they are making to investigate, and we are waiting pending the final outcome,” the spokesperson told CBS News.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, Tunisia’s Interior Ministry has not provided further comments regarding the investigation. The situation remains fluid, and the flotilla is awaiting the results of the inquiry.
Context of the Global Sumud Flotilla
The Global Sumud Flotilla aims to transport humanitarian aid to Gaza, where a blockade has severely restricted access to essential supplies. Israel maintains a maritime blockade of Gaza, asserting that it is necessary to prevent weapons and materials from being smuggled into the territory, which is governed by Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by both the U.S. and Israel.
In the past, Israeli forces have intercepted vessels attempting to breach the blockade, including a notorious raid in 2010 that resulted in the deaths of at least nine activists. Israel has characterized these flotillas as publicity stunts, dismissing their humanitarian claims.
The Flotilla’s Mission
The Global Sumud Flotilla set sail from Spain just over a week ago, aiming to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The group hopes to draw international attention to the dire conditions faced by residents in the region.
Conclusion
The drone attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla’s vessel while docked in Tunisia has raised significant concerns about the safety of humanitarian missions in the region. As investigations continue, the flotilla remains committed to its mission of delivering aid to Gaza and highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The situation underscores the complexities surrounding the blockade and the challenges faced by activists seeking to provide assistance in conflict zones.
Image caption: A vessel from the Global Sumud Flotilla docked in Tunisia before the drone attack.
