A humanitarian vessel en route to Gaza was struck by drones in international waters near Malta, as its operators accuse Israel of the attack.
A vessel delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza was struck by drones in international waters near Malta, according to the ship’s operators.
The attack sparked a fire on board, which was later brought under control. The ship, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was carrying 12 crew members and four civilians when it was hit approximately 26 kilometers off Malta’s coast. The group has accused Israel of carrying out the strike.
Malta’s government said a nearby tugboat responded to the vessel’s distress call, but those on board chose not to abandon the ship. No injuries were reported, and all 16 individuals were confirmed safe.
The Israeli military has not responded to the accusations.
The incident comes amid a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has been under a full blockade since March, with Israel halting all imports, including food and medicine.
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