video screenshot

 

Italy's Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has condemned a nighttime drone attack on a flotilla attempting to break through Israel's naval blockade to deliver aid to Gaza. The attack, of unclear origin, involved drones, explosions, and communications jamming against the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) near Crete. In response, Italy has deployed a navy frigate to assist its citizens aboard the flotilla's 52 boats.

 

The flotilla, comprising several Italian political figures, including MP Arturo Scotto and MEP Benedetta Scuderi, reported thirteen explosions and accusations towards Israel for escalation. Video evidence shared by the GSF includes footage of explosions, though these claims remain unverified. The GSF's latest statement describes the use of explosive and incendiary devices, deliberate interference with communication gear, and chemical dispersal on vessels, resulting in no physical harm.

 

Israel's government has yet to officially respond, maintaining its stance of preventing the flotilla from reaching Gaza. The Israeli foreign ministry claimed that no vessels would breach its blockade and linked the flotilla to Hamas. It offered the alternative of docking at Ashkelon Marina for aid distribution. Renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg, participating in the flotilla, dismissed the incident as a scare tactic, vowing to persist with their mission.

 

Past occurrences reflect similar aggression; notably, two flotilla vessels were targeted by drones off Tunisia weeks earlier. The GSF began its journey amid growing humanitarian concerns highlighted by the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report of famine in Gaza. To date, 440 Palestinian casualties have been attributed to malnutrition, according to Gaza's health ministry.

 

Italy, traditionally an ally of Israel, voices increasing criticism over the Gaza conflict. The shift follows public protest against Israeli policies, although Italy has not granted formal recognition to a Palestinian state. Political dialogues by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni suggest openness to recognising Palestine, contingent on Hamas's actions.

 

The Israeli military campaign against Gaza unfolded after the Hamas attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, which resulted in substantial casualties and hostages. Gaza's health ministry has reported over 65,000 deaths from subsequent Israeli actions.

 

 

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Italy criticises alleged drone attack on aid flotilla, deploys navy support.
• Flotilla's mission draws international attention and involves notable figures.
• Humanitarian focus heightens as Italy reassesses its diplomatic stance.

Related Stories:

 

Greta Thunberg's Gaza Flotilla Sparks Tensions in Tunisia

Gaza Aid Flotilla Reports Drone Strike at Tunisian Port

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-09-25

 

 

If someone dropped a stun grenade near me, I would not know that it was a stun grenade, just that it was an explosive of some sort. I wonder how the woman in the video knew the difference. Multiple explosions with no injuries, seems like a set-up in order to blame Israel.

I have the choice, the same as everybody else, between the Italian government who tell the truth most of the time and the Israeli Ministry of Propaganda and the IDF who never tell the truth.

 

Italy wins every time.

20 minutes ago, billd766 said:

I have the choice, the same as everybody else, between the Italian government who tell the truth most of the time and the Israeli Ministry of Propaganda and the IDF who never tell the truth.

 

Italy wins every time.

Just little white lies like the ambulances had no lights on, or there were 40 babies beheaded, etc. They are the most moral army in the world 😳😀😂