Italy and Spain have sent naval vessels to protect a flotilla carrying international activists, including climate advocate Greta Thunberg, as it heads toward the Gaza Strip, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Protection After Drone Incident
The Global Sumud Flotilla, made up of a few dozen boats with several hundred passengers, reportedly faced unidentified drone explosions earlier this week that damaged part of the fleet. In response, both the Spanish and Italian navies are providing escorts and stand ready to dispatch rescue vessels if needed.
Mission to Break Gaza Blockade
Israel has repeatedly warned the flotilla to turn back. Thunberg, speaking via livestream from the boats, said the group is peacefully carrying food, baby formula, medical supplies, and water. “We are sailing to break Israel’s illegal and inhumane siege,” she said.
Anticipated Israeli Response
The ships are expected to reach Gaza next week, where they could face Israeli interception. Thunberg made a similar attempt in June, when Israeli forces detained her and deported her after stopping her vessel.
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