Background on the Flotilla and Key Participants
The humanitarian flotilla, named Global Sumud (meaning “resilience” in Arabic), aims to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip, which has been devastated by nearly two years of attacks. The flotilla consists of 51 ships carrying activists from 45 countries, including prominent figures like Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg, French actress Adèle Haenel, and Brazilian activist Thiago Avila. The flotilla seeks to establish a humanitarian corridor and end what it calls the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people.
Attacks on the Flotilla
On multiple occasions, drones attacked the flotilla near Greek waters. Activists reported being targeted by “multiple drones” that caused explosions on some ships. The flotilla claimed they were attacked with “explosive and incendiary devices” as well as “chemical substances.”
- Reported Attacks: According to activist Yasemin Acar, five ships were attacked during the night, with an estimated 15 to 16 drones involved.
- Damages: Polish MP Franek Sterczewski reported 13 attacks on a total of 10 ships, with three suffering damage.
International Response and Condemnation
The United Nations and the European Union condemned these attacks, calling for an immediate end to violence against the flotilla. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights demanded an independent investigation into the incidents and accountability for those responsible.
Greta Thunberg, aboard the flotilla, accused Israel of attempting to intimidate and silence those advocating for Palestinian rights. The EU spokesperson deemed any attack on the flotilla “unacceptable” and emphasized respect for freedom of navigation under international law.
Italy and Spain’s Actions
In response to the attacks, Italy and Spain deployed ships to the area. Italy’s fragata was dispatched to “ensure assistance for Italian citizens on the flotilla” and conduct rescue operations if necessary. Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that Spain would send a vessel on Thursday to support the flotilla.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the drone attacks but also criticized the flotilla as a “dangerous and irresponsible” initiative to deliver aid that her government could transport in just a few hours.
Israel’s Stance
On Monday, Israel’s Foreign Ministry warned its embassies to distribute a statement cautioning that individuals linked to Hamas terrorists were among the flotilla’s passengers. The ministry identified Saif Abu Kashek, an activist with the Palestinian Cause Abroad Committee (PCPA), controlled by Hamas, and Zaher Birawi, a high-ranking Hamas official in Europe and leader of its branch in the UK, as key organizers.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of the flotilla? The flotilla aims to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and establish a corridor to end what it calls the genocide of Palestinians.
- Who are the key participants in the flotilla? Notable figures include Greta Thunberg, Adèle Haenel, and Thiago Avila.
- What actions have been taken by the UN and EU? Both organizations condemned attacks on the flotilla and called for an independent investigation.
- How have Italy and Spain responded? Both countries deployed ships to the area for potential rescue operations and assistance.
- What is Israel’s position on the flotilla? Israel has stated it will not allow the flotilla to reach Gaza and has warned that individuals linked to Hamas are among the passengers.
