Italy Condemns Drone Attack on Gaza Aid Flotilla, Deploys Frigate in Response
In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the region, Italy's defense minister condemned an overnight drone attack on a Gaza aid flotilla, which he claimed was carried out by unidentified perpetrators. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), consisting of 52 boats mostly off the coast of Crete, reported explosions and communications disruptions, with some attributing these incidents to Israel's naval blockade enforcement.
According to Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, the drone attack occurred overnight, targeting the aid flotilla as it attempted to breach Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. "We condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms," Crosetto said, adding that he had ordered an Italian Navy frigate to head towards the GSF to assist Italian citizens on board.
The GSF, which has been attempting to deliver aid to Gaza for several weeks, reported multiple explosions and unidentified objects being dropped on their vessels. "We have received reports of explosions and communications disruptions from several boats in our flotilla," said a spokesperson for the GSF. "We hold Israel responsible for escalating tensions in the region."
The Italian Navy frigate, which was deployed to assist the GSF, is expected to arrive at the scene shortly. The deployment comes as Italy joins other European countries in condemning the drone attack and calling for an investigation into the incident.
Background on the Global Sumud Flotilla
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) has been attempting to breach Israel's naval blockade of Gaza, which has been in place since 2007. The flotilla consists of 52 boats, mostly from European countries, carrying aid and supplies for the people of Gaza.
According to a statement released by the GSF, their mission is to "break the siege" imposed on Gaza by Israel and Egypt. The GSF claims that the blockade has caused widespread suffering among the Palestinian population, with many unable to access basic necessities such as food, water, and medical supplies.
Current Status
The situation remains tense in the region, with the Italian Navy frigate en route to assist the GSF. The Israeli government has yet to comment on the drone attack, but sources close to the matter have indicated that an investigation into the incident is underway.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the escalation of tensions between Israel and the international community will only serve to further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and BBC World.
