Gaza Freedom Flotilla Vessel Attacked by Drones Near Malta

A Gaza Freedom Flotilla vessel carrying 30 international human rights activists was reportedly attacked by drones early Friday morning.

According to organizers, The ship, en route to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid and protest Israel's blockade, sustained damage.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition issued an SOS distress signal at 00:23 Maltese time, stating that the vessel was targeted twice by drones, resulting in a fire and a breach in the hull.

The organization claimed that the drone attack specifically targeted the ship’s generator, putting the vessel at risk of sinking with all 30 activists on board.

In response to the distress call, Cyprus acknowledged the SOS, and a Maltese government source confirmed to the Times of Malta that an Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) patrol boat was dispatched to assist in extinguishing the fire.

The vessel was located 14 nautical miles off Malta’s coast—just outside territorial waters—and no injuries were reported.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has been actively preparing for this mission to challenge Israel’s blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid through non-violent means.

Israel has maintained a strict siege on Gaza since 2007, severely restricting the movement of people and goods.

This latest incident follows previous flotilla attempts, including the 2010 Gaza flotilla raid, where Israeli forces intercepted a similar mission, resulting in casualties.