Drone Strike Off Malta Hits Gaza-Bound Vessel, Flotilla Says Israel Responsible
A vessel carrying humanitarian aid and pro-Palestinian activists en route to Gaza was allegedly struck by drones in international waters off the coast of Malta early Friday morning, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, an international NGO organizing the mission. The group has accused Israel of carrying out the attack, which they say left the ship badly damaged and at risk of sinking.
The Maltese government confirmed it received a mayday call from the Conscience, a Palau-flagged vessel, shortly after midnight local time. Authorities said a nearby tugboat assisted with firefighting operations, while a Maltese patrol ship was dispatched to the scene. Officials stated the vessel and its crew were eventually secured, though they reported only 16 people aboard, contrary to the 30 cited by the NGO and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
The Freedom Flotilla released video footage appearing to show the nighttime attack, with explosions audible and flashes visible in the sky. The group claims the drone strike deliberately targeted the ship’s generator, knocking out power and breaching the hull. The NGO said the ship remained at sea and was still in “imminent danger” as of Friday morning.
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BREAKING: At 00:23 Maltese time, a #FreedomFlotilla ship was subjected to a drone attack. The front of the vessel was targeted twice, resulting in a fire and a breach in the hull. The ship is currently located in international waters near #Malta. An #SOS distress signal was sent. pic.twitter.com/J6oEQafuOb
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) May 2, 2025
