Repeated attacks have been reported on various ships of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla. Considering the gravity of the situation, Italy has decided to intervene.
Activists remain shaken after the flotilla came under Israeli attack early Wednesday morning but remain determined to continue their journey. The organizers have confirmed that their mission will proceed.
In response, Italy is sending a warship to assist Italian citizens aboard the flotilla.
The flotilla organizers released a video showing an explosion on one of the ships. Activists reported hearing the blast late Tuesday night near Greece and noted that drones were targeting some of their vessels.
Global Sumud Flotilla stated that multiple drones, unidentified objects, jamming of communication systems, and explosions from several boats had been observed.
Polish MP Franek Starchevski told Ex-Post that a total of 13 attacks occurred on 10 ships, three of which were damaged.
On Wednesday afternoon, Italy announced that a ship would be dispatched to assist Italian citizens aboard the flotilla.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said in a statement, “I have authorized the rapid deployment of the navy frigate Fasan, which was en route north of Crete and is now heading to the area.”
He added that although the perpetrators of the drone attacks remain unidentified, Fasan is being deployed as part of Italy’s maritime surveillance operation to ensure security. Italy has called on Israel to immediately guarantee the safety of the flotilla. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has reiterated a request to the Israeli government, via the Italian embassy in Israel, to ensure the full protection of the flotilla participants.
Source: Middle East Eye.