Tunisian authorities have denied reports that a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla carrying Greta Thunberg was hit by a drone.
The flotilla, organized by Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), left Barcelona last week and reached Tunisia on Sunday. GSF said their Portuguese-flagged vessel, the “Family Boat,” was struck by a drone. They claimed the strike caused a fire on the main deck. All six passengers and crew were safe.
However, Tunisia’s National Guard said no drone was detected. A spokesperson told Reuters that the explosion appeared to start inside the vessel. Investigations are ongoing.
GSF shared videos saying an “incendiary device” caused the fire, which the crew put out. Francesca Albanese, UN Human Rights Council special rapporteur, was on the flotilla. She said that if an attack is confirmed, it would violate Tunisia’s sovereignty. She is working with local authorities to verify the facts.
This is not the first attempt to send aid to Gaza. In June, Israeli forces stopped a flotilla carrying Thunberg and 11 other activists. They were deported from Israel after being escorted to the port of Ashdod. Israel called the missions publicity stunts, saying they did not deliver real aid.
Gaza has faced a blockade since March. A UN-backed report said the blockade caused famine in the territory. Israel denies this, claiming Hamas diverts aid.
Previous flotillas also reported drone attacks. In May, the Freedom Flotilla said its ship The Conscience was struck near Malta.
The GSF mission highlights ongoing humanitarian issues in Gaza. Despite setbacks, activists continue to try sending aid and drawing attention to the crisis.
