Greta Thunberg’s Gaza flotilla boat struck by drone in Tunisia: What to know
Greta Thunberg. Image Credit: Britannica
A humanitarian aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg was struck by a suspected drone in Tunisian waters, according to flotilla organizers. The vessel, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, caught fire at the port of Sidi Bou Said on September 8, 2025. All six people aboard escaped unharmed, but the incident has fueled international tensions and concerns over activist safety.
Tunisia Denies Drone Strike Claims
While flotilla members insist the blaze was caused by a drone, Tunisian authorities dismissed the reports. Officials said the fire likely resulted from flammable materials stored on the boat. Tunisian prosecutors confirmed that an investigation was underway but did not point to any external attack.
This conflicting narrative has deepened uncertainty, leaving questions about who, if anyone, was behind the strike.
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Symbolic Mission to Break the Gaza Blockade
Thunberg joined the Global Sumud Flotilla to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies. The convoy set sail from Barcelona on August 31 and was greeted in Tunisia by large crowds chanting “Free Palestine.”
This was Thunberg’s second attempt to reach Gaza by sea. Earlier this year, she was detained and deported by Israeli forces after joining another aid boat intercepted near Gaza.
UN Voices Concern Over Sovereignty Breach
UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese condemned the incident, calling it a serious violation if a drone strike indeed took place in Tunisian territory. She stressed that humanitarian activists must be protected, especially when conducting nonviolent missions.
Organizers of the flotilla described the strike as an intimidation tactic meant to discourage further voyages. Despite the attack, they vowed to continue sailing toward Gaza with aid.
Greta Thunberg Defiant Despite Risks
Greta Thunberg has long been a symbol of youth activism on climate change, but her recent efforts highlight a broader human rights focus. Speaking before the voyage, she accused world leaders of ignoring what she called a “livestream genocide” in Gaza.
Her presence on the flotilla has amplified global attention, turning what might have been a small humanitarian mission into a geopolitical flashpoint.
What Happens Next?
The strike raises critical questions: Will the flotilla attempt to sail again? Will Tunisia face pressure to provide security assurances? And could future aid missions be deterred by escalating risks?
For now, Greta Thunberg and her fellow activists remain determined, signaling that the Gaza flotilla will continue its course despite growing dangers.