Italy has urged Israel to respect the rights of its citizens aboard a pro-Palestinian flotilla after one of the vessels was reportedly struck by incendiary devices in Tunisian waters.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told parliament on Thursday that Rome is closely monitoring the convoy and providing diplomatic assistance to the 58 Italian nationals involved, including several lawmakers.
«Our embassy in Tel Aviv, under my instruction, talked to the Israeli authorities about the respect of the rights for all the fellow citizens who are part of the flotilla,» Tajani said, adding that he also raised the issue directly with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, which aims to deliver aid to Gaza and challenge Israel’s naval blockade, said its British-flagged vessel Alma was attacked for a second consecutive night while docked in Tunisian waters. CCTV footage reportedly showed flaming projectiles landing on deck, triggering a fire but causing no injuries. A Portuguese-flagged ship, the Family, was targeted the night before in a similar incident.
Both motherships are central to the mission, carrying supplies and prominent figures including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau.
Tunisia’s Interior Ministry described the strike as a «premeditated act» and launched an investigation. Activists suspect Israeli involvement, though no evidence has been presented. Israel has not commented on the accusations but has previously dismissed such flotillas as «publicity stunts,» insisting the blockade is necessary to stop arms smuggling into Gaza.
Further flotilla boats were expected to depart from Siracusa, Sicily, on Thursday evening.
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