Gazabound Aid Flotilla Under Drone Attacks While Advocating for Gaza

The Gazabound aid flotilla has faced unprecedented challenges as its boats, positioned off the coast of Greece, were targeted by over 15 drone attacks, according to a statement from the organizers. The activist group reported incidents late Thursday evening, detailing that multiple unidentified drones were involved in communications jamming and explosions near several of their vessels. This assault is part of an ongoing effort by the flotilla, which consists of over 50 small boats from 44 different countries, aimed at breaking the Israeli blockade and delivering vital aid to the besieged region of Gaza. Activists have made it clear that they will not be deterred by such acts of intimidation. "We will not be intimidated," the group reassured its followers, emphasizing that these aggressive tactics only strengthen their resolve to provide humanitarian assistance and challenge the illegal siege on Gaza. The drone strikes coincided with the ongoing United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Gazabound organizers have been calling for immediate international action concerning the situation in Gaza. They are urging world leaders to support a critical resolution introduced by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who proposed the formation of a coalition of nations committed to preventing genocide in the region through a dedicated peacekeeping force. The backdrop of this tumultuous event is rooted in the severe humanitarian crisis that has gripped Gaza since the start of the war in October 2023, following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. The plight of the Gazan civilians has worsened due to the tightening of the blockade, creating urgent demands for international humanitarian interventions. This is not the first time activists in the flotilla have encountered hostile actions while trying to deliver aid. Earlier this month, some of their ships reported two separate attacks while docked in Tunisian waters. Among those targeted in the recent attacks was the Family Boat, the flagship of the flotilla, which notably carried renowned activists like Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau. The Alma, another vessel involved in the humanitarian mission, was also reportedly under threat, reflecting concerns that such assaults may be indicative of a broader strategy aimed at suppressing humanitarian efforts in the region. Although no definitive proof has been established, activists allege that these attacks may be orchestrated by Israeli forces, recalling an incident from July when unarmed activists aboard the Freedom flotilla were forcibly boarded by Israeli military in international waters as they attempted to deliver supplies to Gaza. In light of these developments, the Gazabound flotilla organizers are calling on the Greek Coast Guard to uphold its duty of care to protect every vessel and individual within its search and rescue zone. The humanitarian mission of the flotilla continues to stand at the forefront of international calls to action amidst escalating violence and repression, seeking to mobilize global support for a peaceful resolution and critical humanitarian access for the people of Gaza. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2