Overview

• The Global Sumud Flotilla says drones caused explosions, dropped objects and jammed communications near Gavdos south of Crete, damaging several boats but causing no injuries.
• Italy deployed the frigate Fasan and then a second navy vessel to provide protection and potential rescue, with Defence Minister Guido Crosetto condemning the incidents and prioritising citizen safety.
• Spain is dispatching the patrol ship Furor from Cartagena to assist nationals on board after Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez demanded respect for international law and safe navigation.
• The UN Human Rights Office and the European Commission called for an independent probe and said freedom of navigation must be upheld, while a Frontex patrol checked on a vessel that declined assistance.
• Israel reiterated it will block any breach of its naval blockade and urged unloading at Ashkelon or via Cyprus, proposals the flotilla rejected as it continues eastward from waters south of Crete.