Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denounced an attack on an international aid flotilla bound for Gaza, calling the mission unnecessary and dangerous.
Meloni criticizes the flotilla mission
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday, September 24, condemned the attack on the international flotilla carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. She also criticized the mission itself, describing it as “unnecessary, dangerous, and irresponsible.”
“There is no need to risk security and enter a war zone to deliver aid to Gaza, which the Italian government and relevant authorities could provide within a few hours,” Meloni said during a press conference at the UN. She explained that Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani plans to mediate the transfer of aid to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem for delivery.
Meloni targets opposition
Meloni accused the opposition, whose representatives were on board the ships, of “having no real issues to mobilize around, so they seek them in Palestine.” She questioned their plans if Israel refused the aid.
“Would you enforce a blockade on Israel? Send naval ships and declare war on Israel?” she mocked. Meloni also called on all political forces, including their lawmakers, to take responsibility and not pressure institutions to work for them. She argued that the situation created “problems” for the government.
Spain and Italy intervene
Spain and Italy are sending military vessels to ensure the safety of the international flotilla. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that his government demands respect for international law and the right of its citizens to safe navigation in the Mediterranean.
Sánchez announced plans to dispatch a warship from Cartagena with necessary resources for potential rescue operations. Meanwhile, Meloni confirmed that the Italian government is investigating the incident.
Drones attack the flotilla
Reports indicate that Israel attacked ships from Italy, England, and Poland overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday. According to Maria Elena Delia, spokesperson for the Italian flotilla Global Sumud, at least 15 drones were used, deploying chemical substances, stun grenades, and ultimately striking the vessels.
Four of the five ships were damaged, including the Italian vessel, rendering them unseaworthy. The flotilla has requested UN maritime escort and diplomatic observers.
