Italy and Spain Dispatch Ships to Escort the Global Endurance Flotilla

In an escalation of tensions in the eastern Mediterranean, both Italy and Spain have announced they are sending naval vessels to escort the "Global Endurance Flotilla," which aims to break the continuous Israeli blockade on Gaza. This move follows a drone attack on the flotilla and highlights growing concerns about the safety of the activists on board.

Italian and Spanish Support

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed his decision to send a second naval ship to assist the flotilla, "strongly" condemning the drone attack that occurred on Tuesday. Speaking before the Italian Parliament, Crosetto described the situation as "extremely worrying" and emphasized the need to ensure the safety of the participants. He also stated that Italy is working to find safe ways to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and hopes that the aid reaches the Strip without any harm coming to the people or ships involved.

Spain also announced it would send a warship to accompany the flotilla. According to an Al Jazeera correspondent, a Spanish frigate has been seen escorting the flotilla since yesterday evening. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez justified the action as a precaution against potential attacks.

Recent Attacks and Accountability

The flotilla was attacked by drones that dropped sound bombs and an itching powder in international waters, about 30 nautical miles from the Greek island of Gavdos. The Global Endurance Flotilla has held Israel responsible for the attack. In an attempt to reduce the risk of further assaults, the flotilla's ships have returned to Greek territorial waters.

Warnings of Consequences

Italian Member of Parliament Stefania Ascari told Al Jazeera that the flotilla's mission is peaceful, aimed at drawing attention to the situation in Gaza. Ascari warned that "any attack on the Endurance Flotilla will be considered a terrorist attack," adding that "any Israeli targeting of the flotilla will constitute a war crime." She stressed that the accompanying Italian ships will protect the participants and called for sanctions on Israel if any of the activists are harmed.