Global Sumud Flotilla Gets Hit by a Drone in Tunisia
Flotilla's "Family Boat" struck by suspected drone at Tunisian port—activists claim attack while authorities cite internal fire cause.
- Publish date: Tuesday، 09 September 2025 Reading time: two min read
Activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla—an international humanitarian convoy bound for Gaza—report that one of their main vessels, known as the "Family Boat," was struck by what they believe to be a drone while docked at Sidi Bou Said port in Tunisia on the night of Monday, September 8, 2025.
The group released footage showing a sudden flash striking the deck, causing fire damage. Fortunately, all six crew members aboard emerged unharmed.
The Global Sumud Flotilla represents a major civilian solidarity effort with Gaza, comprising over 50 vessels and thousands of participants from more than 44 countries.
The flotilla departed in late August from hubs including Barcelona, Genoa, and Malaysia, converging with additional boats from Tunisia and other Mediterranean ports. Their mission: to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza.
In response to the incident, the flotilla's organizers announced an ongoing investigation into the event, asserting that acts of aggression intended to intimidate or derail their humanitarian mission would not deter them.
UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, present at the port, echoed concerns, suggesting that if proven true, the attack could represent a violation of Tunisian sovereignty, though the perpetrators remain unidentified.
Tunisian authorities, however, firmly denied evidence of any drone activity. The Interior Ministry and National Guard maintained that no drones were detected in the area. Officials proposed an alternate explanation: that the fire likely originated from an onboard life jacket, possibly ignited by a cigarette, and they emphasized that their investigation is ongoing.
The episode triggered a surge of public response. Demonstrators waving Palestinian flags gathered at Sidi Bou Said port in solidarity with the flotilla. The incident also intensified international scrutiny of the mounting humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where aid blockades and conflict have precipitated widespread suffering.
The Global Sumud Flotilla reaffirmed its resolve to continue its voyage toward Gaza. Despite this alarming incident, the group emphasized its commitment to their peaceful mission—standing in solidarity with Palestinians and delivering essential humanitarian support.
This article was previously published on kuwaitmoments. To see the original article, click here