Volunteers from more than 21 countries, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, headed to Malta on a mission to Gaza. However, the ship they were traveling on was attacked by armed drones in international waters off the coast of Malta, causing a fire and damage to the hull. The ship emitted a distress signal and was flown over by drones after the attack.
In the past, in 2010, a similar situation occurred when Israeli naval commandos attacked a flotilla in international waters, resulting in the deaths of ten people. Despite this, Israel did not face major consequences for its actions.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition was formed in 2009 with the aim of breaking the maritime blockade on Gaza. Humanitarian organizations from more than 20 countries joined the "Heading to Gaza" initiative to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and advocate for a just solution.
The attacked ship, called "Conscience," is requesting access to Maltese waters and port, but has been denied. Lack of response from European governments and the urgent need for humanitarian aid for the population of Gaza are some of the current concerns.
Humanitarian experts estimate that a large number of aid trucks are needed daily in Gaza, but Israel has prohibited their entry since March 2025, leading to a humanitarian crisis. The lack of international response is a cause for alarm.
The Freedom Flotilla demands that Malta ensure the safety of the ship and its occupants, that the aggression is condemned, and that support for the Israeli blockade of Gaza is terminated. Additionally, civil society is urged to contact Maltese authorities to ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel.
