Mon May 05 05:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Drone Attack Damages Aid Ship Bound for Gaza, NGO Blames Israel
**Valletta, Malta –** A humanitarian aid ship, the *Conscience*, en route to Gaza, was attacked by two drones on Friday near Maltese territorial waters, sustaining damage to its front section and a loss of power, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC). The NGO operating the vessel has accused Israel of carrying out the attack.
The *Conscience*, which departed from Tunisia, had planned to embark activists, including Greta Thunberg, before sailing to Gaza to deliver food and medicine. The ship’s journey comes amidst a two-month Israeli blockade of Gaza, following a renewed conflict which has resulted in over 51,000 deaths.
The FFC initially reported that Malta was impeding access to the damaged vessel, but Malta denied this, stating the crew refused assistance and a damage assessment. Subsequently, Malta offered to facilitate repairs at sea after verifying the ship’s cargo. The FFC confirmed that it was negotiating with Maltese authorities for temporary docking to allow for repairs and a survey of the damage.
Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that Malta is willing to assist with repairs, contingent upon verification of the humanitarian nature of the cargo. While the FFC asserts the ship is not in danger of sinking, they expressed concern about potential further attacks while undergoing repairs.
Hamas also condemned the attack, accusing Israel of “piracy” and “state terrorism.” This incident echoes a 2010 event where Israeli troops intercepted a similar aid flotilla, resulting in the deaths of nine activists. The ongoing tension highlights the fraught situation surrounding aid delivery to the besieged Gaza Strip.
First Piper 