Boats carrying Greta Thunberg, other activists enroute Gaza hit by drone strikes

The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), a convoy of international activists carrying humanitarian aid sailing toward Gaza, reported that two of its boats were struck in separate suspected drone attacks within the same night, though no casualties were reported.

In an update late Tuesday, flotilla organisers said the first strike occurred on one of their lead vessels. “A drone strike hit one of our lead boats last night, but every crew member is safe,” the group said in a video statement, adding that CCTV footage and witness declarations were being compiled. Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, traveling as part of the flotilla, was aboard but unharmed.

Just hours later, the group confirmed a second incident, this time involving the Alma, a boat sailing under the British flag. Docked in Tunisian waters on September 9, the vessel sustained fire damage to its top deck after what organizers described as another drone strike. The blaze was quickly extinguished and all passengers and crew remained safe.

“These repeat attacks come during intensified Israeli aggression on Palestinians in Gaza, and are an orchestrated attempt to distract and derail our mission,” the GSF said. The group released photos of a charred electronic device recovered from the deck of the Alma, which it believes indicates deliberate targeting.

The flotilla emphasised that the incidents would not stop its journey. “Our peaceful voyage to break Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza and stand in unwavering solidarity with its people presses forward with determination and resolve,” the statement read.

No state or armed group has claimed responsibility for the strikes, and Israeli officials have not commented. Tunisian authorities said an investigation into the Alma attack is underway.

The Global Sumud Flotilla includes activists, human rights defenders, and public figures aiming to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Thunberg’s participation has drawn global attention, with supporters describing the voyage as a humanitarian mission and detractors warning of heightened confrontation.