The Global Sumud Flotilla (a collection of international civilian vessels aiming to break Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza) was struck by two suspected drone attacks while docked at the Tunisian port of Sidi Bou Said. The attacks occurred on consecutive nights, setting fire to vessels but causing no casualties. The flotilla remains resolute, pressed onward by the determination to deliver vital humanitarian supplies to Gaza.
On the first night, a drone reportedly dropped an incendiary device on one of the flotilla’s boats, triggering a small fire. Activists released video footage apparently showing an aerial object striking the vessel. The second night saw a similar drone strike hitting the British-flagged Alma, leaving fire damage to its top deck. Authorities say all crew were unharmed
The flotilla’s steering committee directly accused Israel of orchestrating the drone strikes. Tunisian officials, however, rejected the allegations (characterizing the incidents as internal accidents) and launched their own investigation.
The flotilla, which includes Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and Portuguese politician Mariana Mortágua, enjoys backing from 44 nations. A crowd gathered at the port after the incidents, rallying in solidarity with Gaza and calling out Israel and the United States. As Al Jazeera noted, such aid convoys are powerful symbols of resistance against the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
For Israeli authorities, similar flotillas are seen as “propaganda stunts” undermining the legality and strategic rationale of the blockade. Past attempts, such as the Madleen vessel in June, were intercepted by Israeli forces (even in international waters) with activists detained and deported.
These latest drone incidents carry intense legal, diplomatic, and symbolic implications. If confirmed, they would constitute violations of Tunisian sovereignty and escalate tensions under international law. Israel’s decision not to comment officially fuels further ambiguity and elevates the stakes.
At this point it is unclear the origin of the incident since the Tunisian government has denied Isreali’s involvement. while the suspicion is still a speculation from the crew.