Italy Mobilizes Navy Frigate Amid Drone Attacks on Gazabound Aid Flotilla

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto ordered the deployment of the navy frigate Fasan on September 24, 2023, to assist the Global Sumud Flotilla, which is facing drone attacks near Greece. Organizers reported hearing multiple explosions late Tuesday, leading to damage from unidentified objects dropped onto the boats. Crosetto stated that the frigate, which was already on a mission in the vicinity as part of Operation Safe Sea, was en route to the area for potential rescue operations. The United Nations promptly called for a thorough investigation into the reported drone attacks, emphasizing the need for accountability and warning against harassment of the flotilla. The Global Sumud Flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona aiming to breach the Israeli blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid, reportedly includes 500 civilians and activists from 45 different countries. Israel has previously blocked flotilla attempts to reach Gaza, asserting that it will not allow vessels into what it characterizes as an active combat zone. Israeli officials have suggested that any aid should be redirected to Ashkelon Marina for safe delivery to Gaza. Stefano Bertoldi, an Italian activist from the climate group Ultima Generazione, reported that the flotilla was under threat from drones that had been following them for days. He described an explosive device detonating near their vessel, jeopardizing not only the boat's integrity but also the safety of its crew. Minister Crosetto expressed his strong condemnation of the attacks and reiterated Italy's concerns for its nationals aboard the flotilla, including members of Parliament and MEPs. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani communicated similar sentiments, urging Israel to ensure the safety of these citizens and stressing that any operations involving Israeli forces must adhere to international law. The Global Sumud Flotilla, now consisting of 51 vessels, primarily remains off the coast of Crete. Previous attempts to join the flotilla faced similar drone targeting incidents while in Tunisian waters. Amid these escalations, Italy's anti-establishment Five Star Movement has called on the European Union to intervene and provide maritime protection for the vessels, advocating for the deployment of Frontex vessels to escort them safely. The Global Sumud Flotilla operates independently of any governmental or political influences, embodying the Arabic concept of 'Sumud,' which means resilience. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2