Drone Strike hits Gaza-Bound humanitarian Ship near Malta

rki.news
A humanitarian aid vessel en route to Gaza was reportedly struck by drones while sailing through international waters near Malta, according to the organizing non-governmental organization (NGO).
The attack occurred in the Mediterranean Sea and targeted a civilian ship carrying essential food, medical supplies, and water purification equipment destined for Gaza’s besieged population. No casualties were reported, but structural damage forced the ship to halt temporarily.
The NGO, unnamed for security reasons, condemned the incident as a “dangerous escalation” and a breach of international law protecting aid missions. While the drones’ origin remains unclear, the ship was marked as humanitarian and had filed proper maritime documentation before departure.
This strike adds to the rising threats faced by aid workers in conflict zones. The attack sparked international concern, with human rights groups and maritime agencies calling for a full investigation and stronger protection for future convoys.
Witnesses described the strike as “sudden and unprovoked.” Maritime radar logs reportedly confirmed the presence of multiple drones before the incident. The damaged ship is now being escorted to a nearby port for inspection and repairs before deciding whether to resume the mission.
Diplomatic pressure is growing for an impartial probe, as humanitarian groups warn that such assaults could further isolate Gaza’s civilian population and undermine international humanitarian law.
Global observers are closely watching how regional powers respond, with calls intensifying to ensure safe passage for relief efforts. Repeated attacks on aid vessels risk setting a dangerous precedent and disrupting life-saving missions in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.