TUNISIA – The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) confirmed that one of the main ships in its mission, the Family Boat, was attacked by a drone while sailing in Tunisian waters early Tuesday (9/9/2025) local time. The ship was carrying members of the GSF Steering Committee and was sailing under the Portuguese flag.
Video footage and testimonies from activists on board show a drone flying over the vessel moments before an explosion occurred. Although the attack caused damage to the main deck and lower storage areas, all six passengers and crew members are reported to be safe. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further information will be released shortly.
Read also: Tunisia Welcomes the Arrival of the Global Sumud Flotilla Convoy from Spain, Ready to Sail to Gaza
In its statement, GSF emphasized that acts of aggression aimed at intimidation would not weaken their resolve. “Our peaceful mission to break the siege of Gaza and stand with its people will continue with determination,” said the Flotilla’s official statement.
Following the incident, the GSF held a press conference on Tuesday (9/9/2025) local time in front of the Municipal Theater in Tunis. The agenda was to provide updates to the public regarding the drone attack and to convey firsthand accounts from those who were on board the ship when the incident occurred.
Read also: Dompet Dhuafa Supports Global Sumud Flotillas Humanitarian Mission for Palestine
The press conference also featured statements from Francesca Albanese, a member of the GSF Steering Committee, civil society leaders, and international activists. In addition to highlighting the drone attacks, the GSF reaffirmed its mission to break the illegal Zionist Israeli siege on Gaza through peaceful and non-violent action.
The GSF stressed that this incident would not deter them. On the contrary, the attack has strengthened international solidarity with the Palestinian people’s struggle. “This attack is a form of intimidation. But the flotilla’s mission is a symbol of hope and courage. We will continue to sail for humanity,” their statement said.
The day before, on Sunday (September 7, 2025) afternoon, the arrival of the Global Sumud Flotilla convoy of ships from Spain and Italy in Tunisian waters was welcomed by convoy participants and representatives from 44 countries at the Port of Sidi Bou Said, ready to sail to Gaza.
Ahmad Juwaini, Chairman of Dompet Dhuafa, who was also present at this humanitarian event, said, “This afternoon, many representatives from various countries welcomed and offered words of encouragement for the arrival of the Global Sumud Flotilla ships. Subsequently, humanitarian teams representing these countries, including Indonesia, departed from the port of Tunisia for Gaza to support the cause of Palestinian liberation.”
Let us prove that acts of violence cannot stop our humanitarian mission based on peace. Your support is the fuel for our struggle. Let us break through the blockade together, bring hope, and show that justice will always prevail. Support for the Global Sumud Flotilla can be channeled through http://digital.dompetdhuafa.org/donasi/jagapalestina. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Screenshot: Sumud Nusantara, Global Sumud Flotilla
Editor: Dhika