Image Source: Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes
World – The United Nations Human Rights Office has demanded an urgent investigation into reported drone attacks and harassment of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF).
The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid and activists including Swedish environmentalist Greta Thunberg, set sail from Barcelona earlier this month to break Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza.
UN officials emphasised that the safety of humanitarian workers must be safeguarded, particularly when famine has already been declared in parts of Gaza.
The situation has drawn growing scrutiny as reports of intimidation and targeted assaults continue to surface.
UN spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said the assaults defied belief, stressing that aid workers should never come under threat when trying to deliver life-saving supplies to starving civilians.
“There must be an independent, impartial and thorough investigation… such attacks must stop, and those responsible for violations must be held to account.”
According to flotilla organisers, more than a dozen explosions and drone assaults were reported earlier this week. Activists accused Israel of dropping stun grenades and chemical irritants near the vessels.
Israel has long maintained that such flotillas will not be allowed to reach Gaza, instead insisting that aid must pass through its controlled ports.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, also renewed his call for Israel to lift the blockade. His office has argued that the blockade constitutes collective punishment and is exacerbating the humanitarian catastrophe.
“As the occupying power, Israel must ensure food and medical supplies for the population to the fullest extent of the means available, or… facilitate impartial humanitarian relief schemes, delivered rapidly and without hindrance.”
International Concern to Protect the Flotilla
European governments have reacted strongly following the reported attacks. Italy dispatched a frigate to escort its nationals and later confirmed a second vessel was en route.
The move signalled Rome’s intent to protect its citizens in a highly volatile situation. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto addressed lawmakers on the decision.
“We have sent one ship and another is on its way, ready for any eventuality.”
Spain also announced similar measures. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed that Madrid would send a navy ship to safeguard Spanish citizens aboard the flotilla.
“I want to make it clear to the government of Israel that Spain will, of course, protect its nationals, and we will do so both diplomatically and politically.”
