Activist group alleges drone attack on Gaza aid flotilla in Tunisia

In Tunisia, an activist group known as the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) reported that one of its boats, referred to as the 'Family Boat', was struck by a drone at the Sidi Bou Said port on September 8, 2025. The vessel was carrying six passengers and crew, all of whom were reported safe following the incident. GSF activists claimed that an incendiary object was dropped from the drone, igniting a fire on the boat, which caused damage to its main deck and below-deck storage. The activists provided video evidence supporting their claims, depicting the object falling and exploding upon impact. The incident occurred while the flotilla, consisting of approximately 50 boats, was en route from Barcelona to Gaza in an effort to break the Israeli naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave. Prominent members of the flotilla include Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and Irish actor Liam Cunningham, both of whom have taken part in the mission to provide aid despite past interceptions and attacks against other aid vessels. In response to the GSF's claims regarding the drone strike, Tunisia's National Guard has stated that their initial investigation found no basis for the reported attack and suggested that the fire on the 'Family Boat' was caused by an accidental ignition, possibly from a lighter or cigarette butt. The activists, however, maintained their assertion that they were targeted deliberately, emphasizing that such acts of aggression would not deter their mission. Tensions surrounding the blockade of Gaza have escalated since Israel imposed a total blockade in March of this year. Multiple attempts by activist groups like GSF to deliver aid have been met with interceptions and confrontations. These incidents have led to increased scrutiny and condemnation of Israel's military actions against humanitarian efforts in the region. In light of this latest incident, GSF has vowed to continue their mission amidst the challenges they face, highlighting the risks involved in their pursuit of delivering aid to those in need in Gaza.