VALLETTA, MALTA — The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), an international non-governmental organization, is in negotiations with the Maltese government to allow their aid vessel, Conscience, to enter Maltese waters for repairs after sustaining damage from a drone attack. The incident occurred early Friday in international waters near Malta and has been attributed to Israel by the FFC, although Israel has not officially commented on the matter.

The Conscience, which departed from Tunisia, was en route to Gaza carrying humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies. The ship was also scheduled to embark approximately 30 international peace activists, among them Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who was in Malta awaiting to board.

Following the drone strike, the vessel suffered damage to its front section and experienced a loss of power. Despite the damage, coalition officials stated that the ship was not in immediate danger of sinking but emphasized the need for repairs to ensure safety and to protect against potential further attacks.

Initial reports indicated a dispute between the FFC and Maltese authorities. The coalition accused Malta of impeding access to the ship and preventing it from docking for necessary repairs. In response, Malta denied these claims, stating that the ship’s crew had refused assistance and declined to allow a surveyor on board to assess the damage.

Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed Malta’s willingness to assist with repairs, contingent upon verification that the vessel’s cargo consists solely of humanitarian aid. A government spokesman indicated that Malta’s offer included facilitating repairs at sea once the cargo was confirmed. The FFC later clarified its commitment to engaging with Maltese authorities to expedite the temporary docking of the ship for repairs and inspections.

The incident has drawn international attention, with Hamas condemning the drone strike as an act of “piracy” and “state terrorism.” The attack on the Conscience echoes a similar event in 2010 when Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid ship, resulting in the deaths of nine activists.

As the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with over 52,000 Palestinians reported killed and widespread displacement, the FFC remains determined to deliver aid to the besieged enclave. Negotiations with Malta are ongoing to facilitate the necessary repairs and ensure the vessel can safely continue its mission.

Source; Al Jazeera