Drone Attack Targets Global Sumud Flotilla
A humanitarian aid flotilla en route to Gaza, identified as the Global Sumud Flotilla, came under attack by drones off the coast of southern Crete on the night of September 23. The main vessel, named the 'Family', was reportedly struck by a 'swarm of drones with explosives and CS (tear) gas', according to statements from former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis. Organizers of the flotilla also reported at least 13 explosions and widespread radio jamming near the Greek island of Gavdos, with drones dropping 'incendiary devices and unidentified objects' on multiple boats, causing damage and panic among passengers. The flotilla, comprising over 50 vessels with participants from 44 countries, aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip and challenge the ongoing blockade.
Varoufakis Accuses Greece of Aiding Israel
Following the attack, Yanis Varoufakis, a prominent opposition politician and former Greek Finance Minister, publicly accused the Greek government of 'violating International Law to aid and abet the Netanyahu government's genocidal project'. Varoufakis stated on social media that he had communicated with the crew of the 'Family', who had requested urgent assistance from the Greek Coast Guard for repairs and protection while in Greece's Search and Rescue area. He claimed that the Greek Coast Guard 'turned both requests down', highlighting what he described as Athens' determination to 'aid and abet Israel's genocide in Gaza'. Varoufakis further alleged that a Beechcraft King Air 350 spy plane, belonging to the US leasing company Metrea Special Aerospace ISR, took off from the US Air Force base at Souda in northwestern Crete on the night of the attack and flew south, suggesting broader complicity.
International Reactions and Flotilla's Mission
The Global Sumud Flotilla's mission is to deliver critical supplies, including food, medicine, and relief items, directly to Gaza's population. The organizers have emphasized that their mission is nonviolent, legal, and grounded in international solidarity. In response to the drone attacks, Spain and Italy have dispatched naval vessels to protect the flotilla. Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto authorized the deployment of the multi-mission frigate Fasan, already operating near Crete, to protect Italian citizens aboard the convoy. Spain's government also emphasized its decision was made in response to verified threats and in coordination with international humanitarian law. Meanwhile, Israel has labeled the convoy a 'Hamas flotilla' and threatened to take 'necessary measures' to prevent its arrival, demanding that all aid be rerouted to Ashkelon for distribution under Israeli control.
5 Comments
Fuerza
Finally, Spain and Italy are showing some backbone. Protect these aid workers!
Manolo Noriega
While the need for humanitarian aid in Gaza is undeniable, the confrontational approach of directly challenging a blockade often invites escalation. There must be a safer way to get supplies in.
Fuerza
It's positive to see countries like Spain and Italy deploying naval protection for their citizens on the flotilla. Still, the underlying issue of getting aid into Gaza safely and consistently remains unresolved by these temporary measures.
Ongania
Shame on Greece if Varoufakis's claims are true. Complicity in such actions is unacceptable.
Fuerza
Varoufakis makes very serious allegations about Greek complicity, which if true, are scandalous. Yet, such strong accusations require irrefutable evidence before condemning an entire government.