Italy and Spain Deploy Warships to Aid Gaza Flotilla Under Drone Attack

International Aid Flotilla Targeted

• 🚢 An international aid flotilla, known as the Gaza Sumud flotilla, is attempting to break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza using approximately 50 civilian boats.
• 💡 The flotilla includes lawyers, activists, and notable figures like Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.

Drone Attacks and Escort Missions

• 💥 The flotilla reported being targeted by drones in international waters near Greece, with the drones dropping stun grenades and itching powder.
• 🇮🇹 Following the drone attacks, Italy deployed a frigate to assist the flotilla.
• 🇪🇸 Spain announced it would send a warship to provide assistance and potential rescue for Spanish nationals and others on board.

Accusations and Israeli Response

• ❓ Israel has not directly responded to accusations of sending the drones but reiterated its offer to receive aid at an Israeli port and deliver it to Gaza.
• ⚠️ Israel has accused flotilla activists of complicity with the Hamas militant group.

Safety Concerns and Blockade Stance

• ⚠️ The Italian defense minister stated that Italy could not guarantee the safety of its citizens in international waters and urged activists not to break the Israeli blockade.
• 🤝 Italy suggested that activists hand over aid supplies for distribution by the local Catholic church in Gaza.
• 🇹🇳 The flotilla had previously come under drone attack twice earlier in the month while docked in Tunisian waters.