The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) has claimed that one of its main vessels was struck by a drone in Tunisian waters, though all six passengers and crew on board were unharmed. The Portuguese-flagged boat, carrying members of the flotilla’s steering committee, suffered fire damage to its main deck and storage area. Tunisian authorities, however, denied the claim, saying the blast originated inside the vessel and had “no basis in truth” as a drone strike.
The GSF is a civilian initiative backed by delegations from 44 countries, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to besieged Gaza. Its supporters include Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and Portuguese politician Mariana Mortagua. After the reported strike, crowds gathered outside Tunisia’s Sidi Bou Said port waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine.”
Israel has maintained a naval blockade on Gaza since 2007 to prevent weapons reaching Hamas, but critics argue it has created a humanitarian catastrophe. Gaza’s health ministry says over 64,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, while aid agencies warn of famine. The GSF vowed to continue its mission, declaring that “acts of aggression will not deter us from breaking the siege and standing with Gaza’s people.”
