An international activist flotilla attempting to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza reported being attacked for the second consecutive night. The Global Sumud Flotilla stated that one of its boats, the British-flagged “Alma,” was hit by a drone while docked in the Sidi Bou Said port in Tunisian waters. Security camera footage showed people on board shouting “fire” and pointing to the sky as projectiles on fire fell on the deck, causing a blaze. Fortunately, all passengers and crew were unharmed.
The incident occurred just a night after another boat from the flotilla, the Portuguese-flagged “Family,” suffered a similar assault. Tunisian authorities denied that the first attack was caused by drones and said they were investigating the cause. The activists believe that these repeat attacks are an attempt to distract and derail their mission, which aims to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Global Sumud Flotilla consists of around 20 boats carrying aid that departed from Spain on September 1st, with a planned stop in Tunisia before sailing on to Gaza.
The flotilla has garnered support from United Nations experts, including UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who demanded full protection of its passengers. The experts emphasized that any attempt to block the flotilla would constitute a grave violation of international law and humanitarian principles. The Global Sumud Flotilla is the latest effort by international activists to break Israel’s 18-year-long blockade of Gaza, which has been in place since 2007. The flotilla includes participants from at least 44 countries, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau.
The Israeli blockade of Gaza has been a longstanding point of contention, with many arguing that it disproportionately affects the civilian population. The Global Sumud Flotilla’s mission is to bring attention to the issue and deliver much-needed humanitarian aid to the region. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community will be watching to see how events develop. The flotilla’s determination to continue its mission despite the attacks underscores the significance of the issue and the need for a resolution to the blockade.
