Saturday, March 29, 2025
Gaza Aid Ship Bombed : A humanitarian vessel headed for Gaza came under drone attack early Friday in international waters near Malta. Organizers of the mission say the Conscience, a ship operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, suffered serious damage and was left disabled at sea.
The drone strike occurred at 00:23 Maltese time, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. The group said drones struck the ship twice, igniting a fire and creating a large breach in the hull. The explosion reportedly disabled the ship’s generator, cutting all power.
Sixteen people were on board—12 crew members and 4 civilian passengers. The Maltese government confirmed all were safe and unharmed. Authorities dispatched a nearby tugboat to assist the vessel, which drifted without power after the attack.
The ship carried aid and activists from 21 countries. Organizers said the mission aimed to challenge what they called “Israel’s illegal and deadly siege of Gaza” and deliver urgent humanitarian supplies. They accused Israel of violating international law by targeting a civilian ship.
Israel has not responded to the accusations. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition demanded governments summon Israeli ambassadors and seek accountability.
Since March, Israel has resumed military operations in Gaza and reinforced its blockade. Aid groups warn that food, fuel, and medicine have nearly run out. On Friday, local officials said community kitchens might close within ten days due to lack of supplies.
This incident echoes the 2010 flotilla raid, where Israeli forces boarded the Mavi Marmara, killing ten activists. The new strike raises concerns about the safety of future humanitarian missions to Gaza.
