A Portuguese-flagged boat delivering aid to Gaza caught fire on Tuesday after what activists claim was a drone strike. The incident occurred off the coast of North Africa, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC).
The flotilla carried more than 350 human rights activists and aid workers, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The group confirmed that the main vessel, The Family Boat, was struck. Flames engulfed part of the ship, but all six crew members escaped without injury.
The FFC released video footage showing the fire spreading quickly after the blast. Activist Miguel Duarte, who was on board, reported seeing a drone hovering above the vessel just before the explosion.
Another coalition member said the device appeared incendiary in nature, sparking a fire that burned for several minutes. Two passengers were sleeping near the fire’s origin, but the crew managed to contain the blaze before it caused casualties.
Israel has not issued a statement regarding the incident. Activists pointed out that Israeli forces have previously stopped or attacked multiple flotillas heading to Gaza since 2010. The most notable case was the Mavi Marmara raid, which left nine activists dead.
The Tunisian National Guard, however, disputed the account. Officials said monitoring systems showed no drones in the area. They suggested the fire may have been accidental, possibly caused by a cigarette or lighter.
The flotilla is part of ongoing international efforts to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Organizers aim to deliver food, fuel, and medical supplies to the besieged enclave.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified amid ongoing conflict. Tens of thousands of people have been killed, and millions now face hunger and displacement.
In other related news also read Grok Gaza genocide suspension
