Israeli drones harass Gaza-bound Sumud flotilla aid ship in international waters
Activists say Israel using intimidation as humanitarian convoy presses forward breaking inhumane blockade
GAZA, Palestine (MNTV) — The Global Sumud Flotilla reported that Israeli drones repeatedly circled one of its aid vessels bound for Gaza, in what the group described as an intimidation and surveillance operation aimed at preventing the convoy from breaking Israel’s blockade.
According to the flotilla, more than 15 drones flew at low altitude over the aid ship Alma at intervals of about 10 minutes for several hours. “We believe these drones are intended to intimidate, potentially gathering intelligence for Israel,” the group said in a statement.
The convoy, which includes dozens of boats carrying humanitarian aid, set sail from Tunisia earlier this month.
It is supported by pro-Palestinian humanitarian advocates, among them Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, and seeks to deliver assistance to Gaza while challenging Israel’s maritime siege.
The flotilla said two of its vessels were previously targeted by drone attacks even before departure. Israel had also intercepted earlier attempts to reach Gaza by sea in June and July, blocking activists from entering the enclave.
The Global Sumud initiative unites several movements, including the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla, the Global Movement to Gaza, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, and Sumud Nusantara.
Israel has continued its military assault on Gaza since October 7, 2023, killing more than 65,000 Palestinians, nearly half of them women and children, according to health authorities. The war has devastated the territory, leaving the population facing famine.
In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Israel is also standing trial at the International Court of Justice on charges of genocide against the Palestinian people.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
