A vessel from the Freedom Flotilla, carrying medicines and food supplies destined for Gaza, ran aground after being attacked by Israel. The ship's captain, Barry, explained that the ship was bombed, causing damage to its deck and generating thick columns of smoke around the vessel.
Barry mentioned that the ship, named Conscience, is stranded at sea as obtaining a new flag for the vessel will take several months. The crew, composed of 12 crew members and four civilians, is in a complicated situation, according to his statements. Israel has justified the food blockade toward Gaza as a pressure measure to demand the release of hostages captured during a previous attack.
The attack has sparked vigorous criticism from various sectors. Maltese authorities refused to harbor the vessel, while Palau withdrew its flag before the incident. The group that organized the humanitarian aid shipment denounced the attack, sharing videos and testimonies that highlight the vulnerable situation of the crew aboard the Conscience.
One of the activists aboard, Mecid Bagcivan, recounted the moment the ship was shaken by explosions that caused fires and minor injuries to some crew members. Although Cypriot authorities provided assistance to control the fire, the state of the ship requires repairs before it can continue its route. Despite the incident, it was reported that all crew members are safe.
