Valletta, Malta — Activists aiming to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza encountered a serious setback early Friday when their ship, The Conscience, was reportedly attacked by drones while in international waters off the Maltese coast. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the mission, claimed the vessel was struck at 12:23 a.m. local time, prompting an immediate SOS signal.
The group had enlisted a diverse crew, including prominent climate activist Greta Thunberg, to raise awareness around the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Thunberg expressed her disappointment during an appearance in Valletta, stating that the attack inflicted significant damage on the ship, effectively halting their mission to deliver aid and break the blockade. “We human rights activists will continue to do everything in our power to demand a free Palestine and to push for the opening of a humanitarian corridor,” she affirmed.
In response to the attack, the Maltese authorities confirmed that all 16 individuals onboard, consisting of 12 crew members and four activists, were safe. A tugboat was dispatched to extinguish the fire that erupted on the ship shortly after the drone strike. By 1:28 a.m., the blaze had been brought under control, although the ship remained outside Malta’s territorial waters.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition released footage documenting the fire, indicating that the assault appeared to target the ship’s generator, rendering it powerless and drifting in perilous conditions. Cyprus also responded to the SOS signal but reported that its vessel was unable to provide essential electrical support, according to the activists.
The organization’s plea for accountability included demands for Israeli diplomats to address what they described as a violation of international law. Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced it was investigating the reported incidents involving the activists and their vessel.
The plans for the mission come amid heightened tensions surrounding Gaza, where humanitarian conditions have deteriorated sharply. The blockade has limited access to food, fuel, and medical supplies, exacerbating the suffering of the local population. Numerous humanitarian organizations, including the Red Cross, have issued urgent warnings about the dire situation, with some local agencies reporting severe shortages of basic necessities.
Since launching a military campaign against Hamas following an unprecedented attack on October 7, Israeli forces have faced international scrutiny. The conflict has led to devastating casualties, with reports indicating that over 52,400 people have died in Gaza as military operations continue.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition emphasized its commitment to humanitarian advocacy, vowing to persist in their efforts despite the setback. As the situation develops, advocates are calling for immediate international intervention to address the blockade and facilitate aid to those in need.