Sumud flotilla attacked by drones as Italy and Spain deploy ships

A multinational convoy of more than 40 civilian vessels sailing to break Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza entered a high‑risk zone off Greece on Wednesday and reported a series of drone attacks, communications jamming and explosions, prompting Italy and Spain to dispatch warships to the area and international calls for an investigation.

Organizers of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which they say includes over 500 participants from dozens of countries and carries modest loads of food, medicine and medical supplies, said unidentified drones or aircraft struck or dropped objects on at least 10 boats and that crews heard about 13 explosions. No fatalities were reported and activists said damage was limited to vessels and communications equipment. Among those aboard are international volunteers, medical personnel, lawyers and public figures including Greta Thunberg. Organizers said the convoy remained on course.

Italian and Spanish officials said they sent naval vessels to be available for possible rescues. Italy’s defense ministry notified flotilla organizers that a frigate shadowing the convoy would withdraw when the fleet reached about 150 nautical miles from Gaza and would offer to...