Gaza-Bound Flotilla Hit By Drone In Tunisian Waters - GSF

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 (Bernama) -- The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) has confirmed that one of its main vessels, the Family Boat, was struck by a drone in Tunisian territorial waters on Monday (Tunisian time).

In a statement today, GSF said the vessel, which was flying the Portuguese flag, was carrying members of its steering committee at the time of the incident.

“All six passengers and crew are safe. However, fire damage was reported on the main deck as well as in the below-deck storage area of the boat,” it said.

It added that an investigation is currently underway, and more information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

GSF also said that acts of aggression aimed at intimidating and derailing the mission would not deter the group.

“Our peaceful mission to break the siege on Gaza and stand in solidarity with its people continues with determination and resolve,” it added.

The GSF humanitarian mission involves more than 1,000 activists from 44 countries and is sailing with over 50 flotilla ships, carrying humanitarian aid, medicine, and food for the people of Gaza as part of efforts to break the Israeli blockade on the region.

Meanwhile, activist from the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM) Zulfadhli Khiruddin said the drone attack was witnessed by several people at the scene.

“It appears that a fireball attack struck one of the main boats, the Family Boat, also known as the Madeira Ship, which was carrying the committee,” he said in a two-minute video shared on the Telegram app today.

According to him, no casualties were reported. The group is still investigating the mastermind behind the attack and has been advised to remain calm and avoid excessive speculation.

-- BERNAMA