Gaza-Bound Flotilla Reports Drone Strike off Tunisia, Authorities Deny

The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying activists including Greta Thunberg and the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese, reported that one of its main boats was struck by a suspected drone off the coast of Tunisia, causing a fire but no injuries. The flotilla is on a peaceful mission to break the Israeli siege of Gaza and expressed determination to continue despite the alleged attack. Tunisian authorities, however, have denied the drone strike claim, stating that no drones were detected and preliminary investigations suggest the fire started internally among life jackets, possibly caused by a cigarette or lighter. Videos shared by the flotilla show the moment they claim the boat was hit by a drone, but Tunisian officials maintain the fire was not due to external aggression. The investigation is ongoing, with the aid group affirming their mission will not be deterred by acts of aggression. This incident highlights the tensions surrounding humanitarian efforts to Gaza amid Israel’s blockade and international concerns about the humanitarian crisis.