Drones and explosions target Gaza aid flotilla, sparking international outrage and diplomatic responses.
Story Highlights
- Alleged drone attacks and explosions on a Gaza aid flotilla.
- Italy condemns actions, dispatching naval support.
- Conflicting reports from activists and official agencies.
- Ongoing communications blackout with no comment from Israel.
Drone Attacks and Explosions on Gaza Aid Flotilla
On September 24, 2025, activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla reported coming under attack while attempting to breach Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. Off the coast of Greece, explosions and drone activities were observed, allegedly targeting the convoy of 52 boats carrying humanitarian aid. The flotilla claimed unidentified objects were dropped onto their decks, jamming communications and causing damage to several boats. The incident has raised severe concerns about the safety of humanitarian missions in international waters.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, sailing from Greece, aimed to deliver much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, a region under an Israeli naval blockade since 2007. The activists on board stated they were in international waters and posed no threat, carrying only humanitarian supplies. Despite this, the flotilla encountered hostile actions reportedly involving drones, marking an unprecedented escalation in tactics used against such missions. The situation remains tense, with ongoing threats and compromised communications.
'EXPLOSION' heard by Sumud Flotilla crew
Crew members say a drone ‘attacked’ one of the Gaza aid boats
More than a DOZEN drones buzzed the flotilla earlier, radios JAMMED with music https://t.co/YE5eOtiKnF pic.twitter.com/AS2liKH7PK
— RT (@RT_com) September 23, 2025
International Diplomatic Responses
Italy’s defense minister, Guido Crosetto, condemned the attacks as a “dangerous escalation” and promptly dispatched a navy frigate to assist Italian citizens aboard the flotilla. This swift response underscores the seriousness of the event and the potential for broader international involvement. The Italian government’s actions highlight the importance of protecting civilians and upholding international maritime laws.
The Greek Coast Guard and EU Borders Agency approached one vessel but reported no visible damage, contradicting activists’ claims. This discrepancy between the reports of explosions and the official observations has fueled calls for an independent investigation into the incident. The lack of a statement from Israel as of September 24, 2025, leaves a critical gap in understanding the full scope of the event and the parties responsible.
Watch: Explosions and drones targeting Gaza aid flotilla boats, activists say
Implications for Humanitarian Missions
The attacks on the Global Sumud Flotilla have significant implications for future humanitarian missions and international law. In the short term, tensions between involved nations are likely to heighten, with increased scrutiny on Israel’s blockade enforcement practices. The long-term effects might include changes in international maritime law enforcement and potentially deter or embolden future flotilla attempts depending on the global response.
Activists and humanitarian workers aboard the flotilla, Gaza’s civilian population, and citizens of involved European nations are directly affected by these developments. The incident has also sparked public debates over the legality and ethical considerations of enforcing blockades in international waters, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes humanitarian needs while addressing security concerns.
Sources:
Italian prime minister condemns drone attacks on Gaza aid …
Gaza aid flotilla targeted by drones and explosions, activists say
