Gaza flotilla reports explosions, drone swarms, and signal jamming

In a press release, the GSF said that at least 13 explosions were heard around several boats within a 24-hour period. Participants also reported objects being dropped on at least 10 boats, though damage will be fully assessed in daylight. Communications were severely disrupted throughout the night.

The flotilla is carrying over 500 civilian volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, parliamentarians, and human rights defenders in an attempt to deliver food and medical supplies to Gaza. The GSF accused Israel of escalating intimidation tactics, including a coordinated disinformation campaign portraying the flotilla as linked to Hamas.

Demanding urgent international protection

Citing international law, the flotilla's steering committee warned that any attack on its vessels would constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. It also pointed to the International Court of Justice's binding measures requiring Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The GSF called on UN member states, particularly those whose nationals are on board, to ensure protection through maritime escorts, accredited diplomatic observers, and overt state presence. With the UN General Assembly currently in session, the group urged the body to place the issue on its agenda and adopt a resolution addressing the alleged violations.

Three Luxembourgers are part of the humanitarian mission, though one of its coordinators, Maya Garman, had to refrain from sailing due to health conditions but continues to support the GSF from land.

Nora Rosa Fellens Huberty is currently aboard the Johny M., which had to wait nearly 36 hours at sea for repairs due to technical problems but is now back underway and expected to rejoin the flotilla. The future of the Mawal, carrying Luxembourgish participant Abdessamad Taqui, remains uncertain. The vessel is currently docked in Sicily after its mast broke.