Gaza( The COW News Digital ) Tensions escalated dramatically as the Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, came under a series of Israeli drone attacks. Activists onboard reported multiple explosions near the fleet and warned that lives are now in immediate danger.
Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila, speaking in a video message from one of the vessels, confirmed that the flotilla has experienced its tenth explosion since entering the area. “We just heard the tenth blast. They are still attacking our peaceful mission. They are targeting small boats, trying to destroy their sails. They are using devices that can injure people and damage the ships,” Ávila said.
The flotilla’s communication systems have reportedly been jammed, making coordination and calls for help nearly impossible. Activists say Israeli drones continue to hover over the area, creating a constant threat of further strikes.
Ávila appealed to the global community for urgent intervention: “It is crucial that the world sees this attack. Our humanitarian mission is protected under international law, and yet it is being assaulted.”
Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, expressed deep concern over the escalating situation. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote that the flotilla is in urgent need of international protection and attention. According to Albanese, the flotilla has been attacked at least seven times within a short period.
Reports from onboard indicate that sound bombs, explosive flares, and suspected chemical sprays have been used against the vessels. Activists also reported that radio signals have been jammed and emergency calls for assistance have been blocked.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is a civilian-led mission aimed at delivering food, medical supplies, and other essentials to Gaza, which remains under a strict blockade. Similar flotillas in the past have faced interception, but this latest series of drone strikes marks a severe escalation.
Human rights organizations and international observers are calling on Israel to halt the attacks immediately and allow the safe passage of the flotilla under maritime and humanitarian law. Failure to do so, experts warn, risks triggering a broader diplomatic crisis and could further inflame tensions in an already volatile region.
