Gaza Freedom Flotilla Claims Drone Attack Near Malta

The Gaza Freedom Flotilla, a coalition of activist groups attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza in defiance of the Israeli blockade, claims its vessel was attacked twice by drones in international waters off the coast of Malta. The attacks reportedly targeted the ship's generators, resulting in a fire, a breach in the hull, and the vessel beginning to sink. The flotilla, with around 30 activists onboard, issued an SOS signal, but as of several hours later, had not received a response from Maltese authorities. A small boat was reportedly dispatched from southern Cyprus to assist. The coalition did not name any party responsible for the attack, and published videos showing a fire onboard, though these could not be immediately verified. The incident took place amid heightened tensions related to efforts to break the Gaza blockade.