Israeli Regime Escalates Aggression on Gaza-Bound Sumud Flotilla amid Global Outcry
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Israel has intensified its attacks on the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission carrying international activists and aid to besieged Gaza, with repeated drone assaults, explosions, and chemical targeting—drawing condemnation from global figures.
The Global Sumud Flotilla reported a wave of assaults early Wednesday as drones hovered overhead, jamming communications and unleashing explosions near the vessels.
At least nine ships were struck by flashbangs, with six suffering direct hits and one rigging system destroyed.
Unidentified chemicals were poured onto the Yulara, while additional blasts shook surrounding waters.
Brazilian activist Thiago Avila, who is sailing with the flotilla, has said that a tenth explosion has now been recorded near the fleet.
“They are using devices that can injure people and damage the boats,” he said, stressing that the humanitarian mission, protected under international law, would not be deterred.
“We continue going on our mission because we know it’s the right thing to do.”
UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese condemned the attacks, demanding “immediate international attention and protection.”
She noted that the flotilla had been hit multiple times in rapid succession, with boats sprayed with suspected chemicals, radios jammed, and distress calls blocked.
Greg Stoker, a former US Army ranger sailing with the flotilla, said Israel was attempting to deflect from its ongoing slaughter in Gaza.
“This will likely happen every night as Gaza is experiencing the final solution,” he wrote.
Organizers of the mission described the escalation as “alarmingly dangerous,” citing 13 explosions, more than 15 low-altitude drone flights, and repeated chemical drops.
The Global Sumud Flotilla invoked international law and the Geneva Conventions, warning that Israel’s criminal actions “constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
They called on the UN General Assembly to place the attacks on its agenda during its 80th session.
Avila described the new assaults as “more severe and more dangerous,” condemning Israel’s psychological warfare.
“This is a humanitarian, non-violent solidarity mission,” he said.
“We are bringing food and aid to open a humanitarian corridor. We are part of the conscience of the world that knows starving children cannot be left without food.”
Irish actor Liam Cunningham, following the flotilla’s voyage, denounced the attacks as “criminal behavior in international waters” by the “genocidal Tel Aviv regime.”
“The world has to stop this criminal behavior,” he wrote, noting that activists from 44 countries are part of the mission.
The flotilla, carrying aid and solidarity activists from across the globe, continues its course toward Gaza despite Israel’s pledge to block the mission and its escalating campaign of intimidation and violence.
