Early Friday, May 2, 2025, Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s vessel Conscience, carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, faced drone attacks in international waters near Malta.

Strikes hit twice, targeting ship’s generator, igniting fire, breaching hull, and disabling engines. Vessel, stranded 16 miles off Malta, risked sinking, prompting SOS signal. Maltese authorities coordinated rescue, with Cyprus vessel saving all 30 onboard activists. No fatalities reported.

Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), global human rights group, aimed to deliver food, medical supplies to Gaza, challenging Israel’s blockade, enforced since March 2025, halting all imports. Activists, including Swedish environmentalist Greta Thunberg, planned to join in Malta for mission to break siege and address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Attack disrupted plans, but FFC vows to continue advocating for Gaza’s aid corridor.

FFC points to Israel as likely culprit, citing history of blocking Gaza aid, including 2010 Mavi Marmara raid killing nine activists. No concrete evidence provided, and Israel’s foreign ministry remains silent. Social media erupts, condemning attack as violation of international maritime law. Hamas labels it “piracy and state-terrorism.” FFC demands Israeli ambassadors face questioning.

Outrage spreads online, with activists like Francesca Albanese, UN rapporteur, urging maritime support for crew. Türkiye condemns attack, calling it threat to navigation security. Incident reignites debate over Gaza’s blockade, with 2 million Palestinians facing famine-like conditions. FFC’s resolve strengthens, emphasizing nonviolent resistance to deliver life-saving aid.

In 2010, Israeli forces stormed FFC’s flotilla, killing 10 on Mavi Marmara, sparking diplomatic crisis. Current blockade, intensified since March, worsens Gaza’s plight, with UN warning of collapsing food networks. Attack underscores challenges of sea-based aid missions amid regional tensions.

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FFC plans vessel repairs to resume mission. Activists remain committed to Gaza’s cause, undeterred by risks. International community faces pressure to address blockade and ensure safe aid delivery. Incident highlights urgent need for humanitarian access to Gaza.