Drone Strike Allegedly Targets Greta Thunberg’s Gaza Flotilla

Tue Oct 21 2025 18:14:53 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A vessel part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which includes Greta Thunberg, claims to have been struck by a drone while carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Authorities dispute these claims, citing internal damage instead.

In a controversial incident, activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla claim that their vessel, which includes prominent environmentalist Greta Thunberg, was hit by a drone while en route to deliver aid to Gaza. The Tunisian authorities have denied these claims, suggesting the damage originated from within. Activists assert that an incendiary device caused onboard fire, raising questions about the situation surrounding attempts to provide aid in the region amidst ongoing conflicts.

One of the Gaza-bound vessels carrying aid and pro-Palestinian activists, including Greta Thunberg, was struck by a drone, according to the flotilla's organizers. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) posted footage on Instagram showing the Portuguese-flagged vessel being hit by an object and stated all six passengers and crew were safe following the incident near the Tunisian port of Sidi Bou Said.

Tunisian officials, however, refuted the drone claims, saying initial inspections indicated the explosion originated from the vessel itself. The humanitarian aid flotilla recently departed Barcelona and arrived in Tunisia on Sunday.

The GSF reported that their 'Family boat' was hit while located in Tunisian waters, resulting in fire damage on the main deck. Footage shared online depicted various individuals speaking about the impact of an 'incendiary device' that sparked a fire, which was subsequently put out by the crew.

An investigation is still ongoing after a spokesperson from the Tunisian National Guard confirmed that no drone activity had been detected. Experts examining the footage suggested that the nature of the impact may imply the object was dropped from above.

Francesca Albanese, a UN Human Rights Council special rapporteur, echoed concerns about the legitimacy of this incident, remarking that any attack would be an affront to Tunisia's sovereignty. Albanese, known for her criticism of Israel's military operations, was present at the port to ascertain the facts.

The flotilla's mission aims to "break Israel's illegal siege on Gaza," facing significant challenges. Past attempts to deliver humanitarian aid have been met with Israeli authorities detaining activists and boarding their vessels.

This latest incident highlights ongoing tensions and potential violence against humanitarian efforts amidst increasing conflict in the region, including severe humanitarian crises in Gaza due to Israeli blockades.

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