Aid Ship Hit by Drones Near Malta En Route Gaza

A vessel from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza was attacked by armed drones in international waters off Malta, causing a fire, severe hull and generator damage, and leaving the ship powerless and at risk of sinking. All 16 people on board were reported safe after firefighting assistance from a nearby tugboat, though the crew declined evacuation. The incident occurred amid a total Israeli blockade of Gaza imposed since March, which has led to severe shortages and increased inter-communal violence over resources. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition blamed Israel for the attack but presented no direct evidence, and Israeli authorities have not responded. The event has reignited calls for accountability under international law and scrutiny of Israel’s blockade, drawing comparisons to the deadly 2010 flotilla raid. UN officials have expressed concern and called for renewed humanitarian access to Gaza.