Italy and Spain have deployed naval ships to the Mediterranean to protect the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), a civilian aid mission bound for Gaza, after the convoy came under drone attacks in international waters.
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told parliament Thursday that a second ship was being dispatched, following Rome’s earlier decision to send a frigate in response to overnight assaults. “We have sent one ship and another is on its way, ready for any eventuality,” he said.
Spain confirmed its participation, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announcing in New York that a Spanish naval vessel would sail from Cartagena on Friday. “The government of Spain demands that international law be complied with and that the right of its citizens to navigate the Mediterranean under safe conditions be respected,” Sánchez said.
Flotilla organisers described the latest incidents as an “alarmingly dangerous escalation”, accusing Israeli drones and aircraft of dropping flashbang-type explosives and “unidentified objects” on multiple vessels. Participants also reported deliberate radio jamming that disrupted communications.
The GSF, now consisting of some 50 boats carrying aid supplies, includes activists, journalists, lawyers, human rights campaigners, and political figures. Notably, Greta Thunberg is taking part, marking her second attempt to break Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. “This mission is about Gaza, not about us,” she said in a video call, stressing that no risks faced by flotilla members compared to those endured daily by Palestinians.
Two Italian opposition lawmakers are also on board, raising concerns in Rome about their safety. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said his ministry had formally warned Israel to ensure compliance with international law and the “principle of absolute caution” during any military action. The Italian embassy in Tel Aviv has been instructed to press Israel for guarantees.
In a statement, flotilla organisers rejected intimidation efforts and urged UN member states at the General Assembly to put the attacks on the agenda.
The deployment of European naval assets signals a sharp escalation in tensions at sea, as civilian activists challenge Israel’s blockade while Western governments weigh their obligations to protect citizens participating in humanitarian missions.
Africa Digital News, New York
