Boat carrying activists docks in Kato Paphos
A vessel named Vivy Sabre, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla mission, has arrived at the Limanaki area of Kato Paphos.
The boat carries six male activists from Italy, Spain, Mexico and Morocco.
Claims of attacks and disruptions at sea
Speaking to media, Italian national Danielle Gallina, who resides in Belgium, said the flotilla departed from the port of Augusta in Sicily and was later attacked off the coast of Ierapetra in Crete.
He added that the group continued sailing towards Marmaris, Turkey, in international waters.
According to Gallina, “yesterday we were attacked [the entire flotilla], passengers were abducted and we, due to a technical problem and because one person needed medical assistance, managed to arrive here.”
He also said the group intends to repair the vessel in order to continue its mission.
Humanitarian aid mission to Gaza
The activists say they are transporting humanitarian aid, including food and essential supplies, intended for civilians in Gaza.
They also claimed they were asked to remove a Palestinian flag from the vessel and expressed concern that they may face restrictions displaying it in other European ports.
Wider flotilla developments
The incident comes amid broader developments involving the Global Sumud Flotilla mission.
On Monday, reports emerged of an interception by Israeli forces of one of the flotilla’s vessels in international waters near Cyprus while en route to Gaza.
According to organisers, the Global Sumud Flotilla consists of 52 boats carrying more than 400 civilians from over 45 countries, aiming to challenge the naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aid.
Also read: Flotilla ship bound for Gaza docks in Paphos
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