On May 2, the Conscience, a ship carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, was reportedly attacked by two drones in international waters off the coast of Malta. According to activists on board, the drones struck the bow of the vessel, causing structural damage and a loss of power.
The Conscience is operated by the non-governmental organization Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza by sea. The ship departed from Tunisia carrying food and medical supplies, along with 30 volunteers from around the world.
Activists claim that Israel is behind the attack, although Israeli officials have not yet commented on the incident.
Negotiations are currently underway between the activists and Maltese authorities regarding the possibility of docking for repairs. Initially, the NGO accused Malta of blocking access to the ship, but Maltese authorities denied the claim, stating that the activists had refused to allow an inspector on board. The activists have since agreed to the inspection, and discussions about repairs are ongoing.
The Conscience is a passenger vessel built in 1972 and registered under the flag of the Marshall Islands. The ship measures 68.8 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and has a gross tonnage of 1,029 tons.
