Drone Assault on Aid Flotilla Sparks International Tension

An international aid flotilla aimed at delivering crucial assistance to Gaza reported an overnight attack by drones in international waters near Greece, prompting an Italian naval vessel's intervention. The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of 50 civilian boats, seeks to challenge Israel's naval blockade, involving activists such as Greta Thunberg.

Marikaiti Stasinou, a spokesperson for March to Gaza Greece, said 12 drones targeted the flotilla 30 nautical miles off Gavdos Island. Although no casualties occurred, Italy's Defence Minister Guido Crosetto condemned the incident, deploying the frigate Fasan for potential rescue missions. The flotilla faces criticism from Israel, who accuses it of ties with Hamas.

Following the attack, Italy has committed naval support, with concerns over its nationals onboard. Despite Israeli warnings of action unless aid is redirected through their ports, participants, including Benedetta Scuderi of the European Parliament, remain defiant. This month marks continued drone assaults on their vessels, suggesting persistent risks in their humanitarian mission.

(With inputs from agencies.)