02.05.2025 18:10
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which set out to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza in response to Israel's attacks, was targeted by drones off the coast of Malta. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli stated that there are Turkish citizens on board the ship and that their health is good. Keçeli also reported that there are claims that the ship was hit by Israeli drones.
A coalition called the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), formed by various campaigns and initiatives from around the world with the aim of delivering humanitarian aid to the region against Israel's attacks on Gaza, was attacked while on its aid ship.
ATTACKED WITH DRONES The ship, which was attacked by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at 00:23 local time in international waters near Malta, sustained damage to its hull and a fire broke out at its bow.
CARRYING 30 PEOPLE The ship, which faced the risk of sinking, sent a distress signal to neighboring countries. In a statement from the Maltese government, it was noted that a nearby tugboat was directed to the ship following the distress signal. It was reported that those on the aid ship were safe and there were no casualties. The statement also mentioned that there were 15 crew members and 15 passengers on board the ship.
STATEMENT FROM THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS: TURKISH CITIZENS WERE ALSO ON BOARD Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli stated on social media that there were Turkish citizens on the attacked ship. In his statement, Keçeli said: "It has been learned that the ship named 'Conscience', belonging to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and carrying our citizens, was attacked while sailing in international waters off the coast of Malta."
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli "THEIR HEALTH STATUS IS GOOD" It is known that the health status of the crew and passengers on the ship is good. Necessary efforts are being made in cooperation with Maltese authorities to ensure the safe transfer of our citizens.
ALLEGATION OF 'ISRAEL' We strongly condemn this attack on a civilian ship, which threatens the freedom of navigation and maritime security in international waters. There are allegations that the ship was targeted by Israeli drones. All necessary initiatives will be taken to uncover the details of the attack as soon as possible and to hold the perpetrators accountable before justice.