Flotilla Struck by Drone Near Tunisia
Flotilla Reports Possible Drone Strike in Tunisian Waters, Investigation Underway
TUNIS — A flotilla attempting to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza reported an incident off the coast of Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia, over the weekend. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) said one of its main vessels was hit by what is suspected to be a drone, though no injuries were reported.
The group shared security camera footage showing a humming sound, followed by a flash of light, and a brief fire on board. According to an AFP journalist who visited the scene, the blaze was quickly extinguished.
However, Tunisian authorities have questioned the drone claim. National Guard spokesman Houcem Eddine Jebabli told AFP that preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have started in the life jackets and that “no drones have been detected.” The national guard added on Facebook that the reports of a drone were “completely unfounded” and suggested a cigarette may have caused the fire.
In contrast, Brazilian activist Thiago Avila posted a video on Instagram in which a flotilla member insists a drone dropped a bomb on the vessel, calling it “100 percent a drone.” The Israeli military did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese shared the security footage, highlighting the sounds of the explosion and the crew’s calls for help, writing on X: “Draw your conclusions.”
The Global Sumud Flotilla, an independent group unaffiliated with any government or political party, says its mission is rooted in the Arabic concept of “sumud,” meaning resilience. Among its notable participants was climate activist Greta Thunberg, who spoke to pro-Palestinian campaigners in Tunisia on Sunday.
Israel has previously blocked two flotilla attempts to deliver aid to Gaza in June and July. The United Nations has declared parts of Gaza in a state of famine, warning that roughly 500,000 people face “catastrophic” conditions.
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