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Activist Flotilla to Gaza Reports Drone Strikes Off Greece as Italy Sends Frigate

EU and UN officials demanded an independent investigation into alleged drone explosions and communications interference in international waters.

Overview

  • Organizers said multiple drones caused explosions and communications disruptions near Crete with no injuries reported, as roughly 51 boats carrying more than 600 activists, including Greta Thunberg, continued toward Gaza.
  • Italy deployed the Navy frigate Fasan to the area to assist its citizens and signaled diplomatic efforts to mediate access for the aid cargo.
  • The European Commission condemned any drone attack as unacceptable and stressed freedom of navigation, while the UN human rights office called for an independent, impartial probe.
  • Israel reiterated it will not allow the flotilla to reach Gaza, urged delivery via an Israeli port such as Ashkelon, and associated some participants with Hamas.
  • Attribution remains contested: flotilla organizers blamed Israel, Brazil condemned the reported attack and pressed for inquiries, Spain said it would send naval escort, and a Frontex patrol that approached one vessel reported no visible damage.