The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) held a press conference following a confirmed drone strike on its “family boat” in Tunisian waters.
Thousands of members, including activist and grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla Mandela, stood in support of Palestine.
Officials said that despite the “shameful” attack, their mission would not be deterred.
DRONE STRIKE HITS GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA
Six passengers and crew on board were unharmed, but the boat sustained fire damage to its main deck and below-deck storage. The GSF emphasised that it plans to break the siege on Gaza through peaceful, non-violent means.
Addressing the media in Tunisia, officials thanked the Tunisian government for its support and solidarity with the Palestinian people. They noted that, over the past 17 years, there have been repeated attempts to break the siege, claiming that this was the 38th boat to be attacked.
“Palestinians have been suffering for decades. The risk is nothing compared to what people in Gaza endure,” the official added.
Since the drone attack, the GSF reported that more supporters from other countries have joined the mission.
“They have the drones, the weapons, and violence. We have everything else. We stand together, steadfast, learning from Palestine. The Palestinian people never give up, and neither will we,” the official said.
The boat, sailing under a Portuguese flag, was carrying members of the GSF steering committee. The organisation reiterated that this act of aggression will not deter them from their mission.
ISRAEL ORDERS FULL EVACUATION OF GAZA CITY
Meanwhile, Israel has ordered a complete evacuation of Gaza City. The military’s Arabic language spokesperson Avichay Adraee said the Israel Defence Forces is determined to defeat Hamas.
Adraee said the army will operate with “great force” in Gaza City.
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