A ship carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza was struck by drones in international waters near Malta on Friday. The incident marks the latest violent encounter as global efforts continue to deliver help to the war-ravaged Palestinian territory.
The ship, named Conscience, caught fire after the drone attack. It was carrying 12 crew members and 4 civilian volunteers. The fire was later controlled with the help of a nearby tugboat. Authorities in Malta confirmed the fire and said there were no serious injuries.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the group behind the aid mission, blamed Israel for the drone strike. However, no direct evidence was presented to support the claim. The Israeli military has not responded to the accusation.
Fire Erupts After Two Loud Explosions
Mecid Bagcivan, a Turkish activist on board the ship, described the moments of chaos. He said he was preparing for bed when two loud explosions were heard. The blasts came two minutes apart and caused panic on the ship.
At first, those onboard thought there had been a collision. But then, flames became visible. That’s when the crew realized they were under attack, Bagcivan told the Associated Press.
As the crew tried to call for help from Malta, someone reportedly impersonated their radio call. The unknown person claimed that help was not needed. Still, a tugboat arrived and assisted in putting out the fire. Some people suffered minor injuries while fighting the fire themselves.
Who Is Behind the Attack?
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition shared videos online showing a loud explosion and later, the ship burning. They blamed Israel for the attack but admitted they had no clear proof that drones from Israel were responsible.
Israel has not commented on the incident. Since March, Israel has blocked all aid imports into Gaza, including food and medicine. The blockade has caused a severe humanitarian crisis in the region.
According to United Nations reports, more than 30,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict began in late 2023. Many aid organizations are trying to reach the enclave by sea, since land access has become nearly impossible.
Why Gaza Needs Help
Gaza has been facing intense fighting between the Israeli army and Hamas militants for over 18 months. The war has destroyed homes, hospitals, and water systems. Many families have no access to clean drinking water or basic medical supplies.
The United Nations says nearly 80% of Gaza’s population is now displaced. Food is running out, and hospitals cannot treat patients due to a lack of medicine and fuel.
Aid ships like Conscience aim to deliver urgent supplies. These include canned food, baby formula, medical kits, and water filters. However, reaching Gaza by sea has become increasingly dangerous.
Past Incidents Involving Aid Ships
This is not the first time an aid ship has been attacked while trying to reach Gaza. In 2010, Israeli forces stormed the Mavi Marmara, a Turkish ship carrying aid. Nine activists were killed, and dozens were injured. That incident sparked global outrage and led to a sharp decline in Turkey-Israel relations.
Since then, groups like the Freedom Flotilla Coalition have continued to organize sea missions. These missions aim to challenge Israel’s naval blockade and bring attention to the suffering in Gaza.
Growing Concerns in the International Community
Human rights groups are urging an investigation into the latest attack. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have called for safe humanitarian corridors into Gaza.
The European Union and the United Nations have also asked Israel to allow immediate access for aid. Several countries, including Turkey and Norway, are pushing for an independent probe into the drone strike near Malta.
The Maltese government has not accused any specific party but confirmed that the ship was in international waters when it was attacked.
What Happens Next?
The Conscience remains at sea, and those onboard have refused to abandon the ship. Activists have vowed to continue their mission to deliver aid to Gaza.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition says more ships are ready to sail. They are calling on international leaders to protect future missions and ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen. With no end in sight to the war, the need for food, medicine, and shelter grows every day.
