Thu Sep 25 06:24:00 UTC 2025: **Italy and Spain Deploy Naval Ships to Protect Gaza Aid Flotilla After Drone Attacks**
**NEW YORK** – Italy and Spain are deploying naval ships to the Mediterranean Sea to ensure the safety of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of civilian boats carrying aid to Gaza, following a series of drone attacks. The flotilla, which includes citizens from 45 nations, including Italian lawmakers, human rights activists, and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, was reportedly targeted by drones dropping “flashbang”-type explosive devices and experiencing radio jamming, prompting concerns for their safety.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced Spain’s commitment at the UN General Assembly, stating that a naval vessel would be dispatched to assist the flotilla and carry out rescue operations if needed, emphasizing the right of citizens to navigate the Mediterranean safely.
Earlier, Italy announced it was sending a frigate after Defence Minister Guido Crosetto condemned the attacks. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has already notified Israeli authorities, urging compliance with international law and caution, emphasizing the presence of Italian citizens and parliamentarians on board.
The Global Sumud Flotilla condemned the attacks as a dangerous escalation and called on UN member states to address the issue during the UNGA. Despite the incidents, organizers affirmed their resolve to break Israel’s sea blockade of the Gaza Strip and deliver aid.
First Piper 