Fri May 02 04:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Freedom Flotilla Vessel on Fire After Reported Drone Attack
**VALLETTA, Malta —** A ship carrying 30 human rights activists participating in a Gaza freedom flotilla is reportedly on fire and sinking after a suspected drone attack in international waters off the coast of Malta. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition claims the vessel, identified as the *Conscience*, was attacked twice just after midnight local time.
The Coalition’s press officer, Yasemin Acar, told CNN that the ship sustained a hole below the waterline and that the generators were targeted, leaving the vessel without power. Videos posted on X (formerly Twitter) appear to show a fire and smoke emanating from the ship, along with the sound of explosions, though CNN cannot independently verify their authenticity.
Acar stated that the *Conscience*, flying under a Palau flag, was approximately 17 kilometers off the Maltese coast when the incident occurred. The coalition has issued SOS calls to surrounding countries, including Malta, and reported that a small boat from Southern Cyprus has been dispatched to assist. While the coalition did not explicitly accuse any party, they stated that the attacks came from drones.
The *Conscience* is currently listed on marine traffic websites as being located off the eastern coast of Malta. The situation is ongoing, and rescue efforts are underway. This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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