SAEDNEWS: An Israeli drone struck the largest vessel of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla docked near Tunisia’s Sidi Bou Said port on Tuesday, sparking fire and condemnation from international activists, though Tunisian authorities later denied the attack.
The Samoud (Steadfastness) Flotilla’s flagship vessel, Family, was reportedly struck by an Israeli drone while anchored outside Tunisia’s Sidi Bou Said port, according to flotilla organizers. The attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, igniting a fire onboard and prompting warnings to other flotilla ships to avoid the area.
Wael Nawar, a flotilla member, confirmed the drone strike, while organizers emphasized that all six passengers and crew aboard escaped unharmed. The Portuguese-flagged vessel, part of the largest maritime mission in history to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza, was carrying steering committee members known as the “Family Boat.”
Footage released by the flotilla showed the aftermath of the strike, while activists reported large gatherings at the port denouncing the attack. Francesca Albanese, an international coordinator, called the incident “dangerous” and urged urgent protection for two additional vessels en route to Tunisia, warning they too could face attacks.
Despite the flotilla’s statements, Tunisian authorities reportedly denied claims of a drone strike against the vessel. Nevertheless, the Samoud Freedom Caravan, with thousands of pro-Palestinian activists and humanitarian aid—including medicine, food, and essential supplies—is continuing its journey from Mediterranean ports like Barcelona and Tunis toward Gaza.
Activists, including Egyptians and international participants, condemned the attack as a “cowardly act of war” but vowed to continue the mission, highlighting their determination to break the blockade and deliver aid to Gaza.
