Aid Ship Targeted: Gaza NGO in Discussions with Malta for Repairs
The Conscience, operated by the global non-profit group, Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), suffered significant damage after being hit by drones just beyond Maltese territorial waters. The vessel, initially set to embark on a mission carrying around 30 peace activists from around the globe to Gaza, now faces repairs.
The incident left the ship's front section damaged, causing a power loss[1]. Fueled by allegations, the coalition pins the blame squarely on Israel, with its longstanding blockade and bombardment of Gaza[5]. The Conscience, having set sail from Tunisia, aimed to deliver essential supplies like food and medicine to the besieged territory[3].
Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, who intended to join the flotilla, was reportedly in Malta during the incident. Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed Malta's willingness to help with necessary repairs, contingent on the vessel carrying only humanitarian goods[4].
In a statement, the coalition affirmed its desire for rapid repairs, ensuring the vessel's safety from further attacks, and the continuation of its vital humanitarian mission to Gaza[6]. Initially, the coalition claimed Malta was obstructing access to their ship. However, Malta disputed these claims, stating the crew had refused assistance, even denying a surveyor access to evaluate the damage[6].
As negotiations ensue, the coalition welcomes the surveyor on board[6]. Israel paused humanitarian aid to Gaza two months prior to resuming its conflict with Hamas, leading to the death of over 51,000 civilians[5].
Incidents like this are not uncharted territory for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. Other similar missions have ended in Israeli interceptions, with activists arrested[5]. Hamas has since issued a statement regarding the Maltese incident, accusing Israel of "piracy" and "state terrorism[5]."
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- "Amidst war-and-conflicts and politics, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) has accused Israel of state terrorism following the damage of their ship, The Conscience, hit by drones in Maltese territorial waters."
- "The incident has highlighted the ongoing tension in the region, with reports of Israeli bombardment and blockade of Gaza contributing to the violence and terrorism in the area."
- " Breaking news: As the coalition prepares for repairs, politicians and human rights groups demand an end to the war and resumption of general news of peace and humanitarian aid in the war-torn Gaza region."
