Turkey criticizes assault on humanitarian vessel belonging to Freedom Flotilla Coalition
Updated Article:
In a firm statement, Turkiye slammed an assault on a humanitarian aid vessel, Conscience, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, asserting that it was under attack by drones in international waters off Malta on Friday[3].
Reports suggest that the ship was targeted twice by armed drones, resulting in a fire and a grievous breach in the hull[1][2]. The incident happened approximately 17 nautical miles east of Malta, prompting the ship to send an SOS distress call[2].
The Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Oncu Keceli, stated that all possible efforts will be made to ascertain the facts of the attack and bring the culprits to justice[3]. The vessel carried Turkish nationals, and thankfully, the health of the crew and passengers is said to be satisfactory. Collaborative efforts are being coordinated with Maltese authorities to transfer the Turkish citizens to a secure location[3].
Keceli hinted at allegations that the ship was targeted by Israeli unmanned aerial vehicles, but no official confirmation has been received. The Israeli government has remained silent on these accusations so far[1][4]. If Israel or its allies are found responsible, it would be a clear violation of international law[1].
The situation remains fluid, with the international community expressing concern but no definitive action has been taken. Cyprus has dispatched a vessel in response to the distress call, but the situation remains complicated due to concerns about the ship's affiliation and the lack of a legitimate flag[1][2][3]. The incidents of Meddling are being reviewed, but no formal investigation has been announced yet.
- The United Nations (UN) has called for an immediate investigation into the attack on the Conscience, a humanitarian aid vessel, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, in war-and-conflicts news.
- The humanitarian ministry has expressed deep concern over the alleged attack on the Conscience, which was targeted by armed drones off the coast of Malta, leading to a fire and a breach in the ship's hull.
- Amidst the ongoing crisis, the general news outlets are flooded with reports of the attack, with speculation about the involvement of Israeli perpetrators using unmanned aerial vehicles.
- The Maltese government has confirmed the receipt of an SOS call from the Conscience and is coordinating efforts with Turkish authorities to transfer Turkish citizens to a secure location.
- Despite the seeming silence from the Israeli government, the accusations of their involvement in the attack on the Conscience have prompted widespread condemnation in politics circles.
- If confirmed, the attack on the Conscience would be a clear violation of international humanitarian law, raising concerns about the future of peace initiatives in the Gaza region.
- As the international community watches the events unfold, news outlets are urging for calm and caution, warning against hasty judgments and escalating tensions.
- Soon, a comprehensive report on the attack on the Convoice is expected to be released, shedding light on the facts and the perpetrators behind this significant event in humanitarian affairs.
