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Malta Nears Agreement to Repair Drone-Hit Gaza Aid Ship

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition's vessel remains anchored off Malta as negotiations progress over inspections and guarantees for its humanitarian mission.

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The damaged Gaza Freedom Flotilla ship "Conscience" is anchored at sea outside Maltese territorial waters, after the NGO said the vessel was bombed by drones while carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, May 3, 2025. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi/File Photo
Activists hold a Palestinian flag on a yacht carrying supplies as they are prevented from approaching the damaged Gaza Freedom Flotilla vessel "Conscience", after the group said it was bombed by drones while carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, at sea outside Maltese territorial waters, May 3, 2025. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi
The damaged Gaza Freedom Flotilla vessel "Conscience" is anchored at sea outside Maltese territorial waters, after it was bombed by drones while carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, May 3, 2025. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi

Overview

  • The ship Conscience, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was struck by drones on May 2 in international waters near Malta, causing damage and power loss.
  • The coalition blames Israel for the attack, citing flight data of an Israeli military aircraft in the area, though no government has confirmed responsibility.
  • Malta has offered to repair the ship or tow it into port, contingent on a maritime survey to verify its cargo as humanitarian aid.
  • The coalition initially resisted Malta's conditions but has now agreed to allow a surveyor aboard, seeking assurances the mission can continue after repairs.
  • The Conscience was en route to deliver food and medicine to Gaza, where Israel's blockade has created severe shortages, with activists highlighting the humanitarian crisis.