Italy sends second navy ship to escort Gaza aid flotilla

Italy has deployed a second naval vessel to escort an international aid flotilla bound for Gaza that came under drone attack, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told parliament on Thursday.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, which consists of about 50 civilian boats, is attempting to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. On board are lawyers, activists, and high-profile figures, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

“We have already sent one ship and another is on its way, prepared for any eventuality,” Crosetto said in his address to the lower house.

The move comes a day after Italy dispatched its first frigate, hours after the flotilla organisers reported being attacked in international waters 30 nautical miles (56 km) off the Greek island of Gavdos. According to the group, drones dropped stun grenades and itching powder on the boats. The flotilla organisers blamed Israel for the assault.

Also Read: Israeli drones drop grenades, chemical substance on Sumud Flotilla ships

While Israel’s foreign ministry did not comment directly on the allegation, it reiterated its call for the flotilla to offload humanitarian supplies at an Israeli port, promising that Israeli authorities would deliver the goods to Gaza. The ministry warned that failure to comply would bring consequences.

Spain has also announced plans to send a naval warship to provide protection for the flotilla.

Crosetto cautioned activists against trying to breach the blockade and urged them instead to accept an Italian plan to transfer the aid supplies for distribution in Gaza through the local Catholic Church. “We cannot guarantee the safety of our fellow citizens if they enter the territorial waters of other countries,” he said.

In a statement on Thursday morning, the flotilla organisers said their vessels were still sailing slowly within Greek waters, had experienced “moderate drone activity” during the night, and were preparing to move into international waters later in the day.