Italy has deployed a second warship to accompany an international humanitarian flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza, after the convoy was previously attacked by drones, according to Defense Minister Guido Crosetto.
The flotilla, named “Global Sumud”, consists of approximately 50 civilian vessels trying to breach the Israeli naval blockade of Gaza, Reuters reported.
The first Italian frigate was dispatched on Wednesday, hours after flotilla ships were attacked in international waters, 56 kilometers from the Greek island of Gavdos, by drones reportedly dropping stun grenades and irritating powder.
Israel has been accused of the attack, while the Israeli Foreign Ministry has warned the flotilla to deliver humanitarian aid to an Israeli port, or face consequences.
Minister Crosetto cautioned activists against attempting to break the blockade and suggested they hand over supplies to Italian forces or the local Catholic Church for distribution in Gaza.
Spain has also announced plans to deploy a warship to protect the flotilla.
