TL;DR: Italy has deployed a second navy ship to protect the Global Sumud Flotilla delivering aid to Gaza, following drone attacks in international waters. The flotilla seeks to challenge Israel’s blockade, while Italy and Spain provide naval support to ensure safe passage without violating Israeli territorial waters.
🚢 What Happened
- Italy sent a second navy ship, Alpino, on September 25, 2025, to join the Virginio Fasan in escorting the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying aid to Gaza.
- The decision follows a drone attack on the flotilla near Gavdos, Greece, where stun grenades damaged boats but caused no injuries.
- Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said the move is to ensure safety and urged flotilla members to consider Italy's proposal to transfer aid via Cyprus and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
⚓ Flotilla and Naval Involvement
- The Global Sumud Flotilla consists of over 50 civilian boats with aid workers and activists from 45+ countries, including Greta Thunberg.
- Spain also deployed a navy vessel, Furor, to protect Spanish and European citizens on board.
- All naval escorts are operating in international waters and will not enter Israeli territory due to international law constraints.
🇮🇱 Israel's Position
- Israel maintains the naval blockade is legal and necessary to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas.
- Israel has warned it will not allow the flotilla to breach the blockade and suggested delivering aid via Ashkelon port instead.
🌍 International Reaction
- UN human rights chief called for an end to the Gaza blockade.
- The EU condemned the use of force against the flotilla after the drone incident.
- Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized "the importance of respecting international law and the right to safe navigation."
🧭 Current Status (as of Sept 26, 2025 – 1:26 pm GMT)
- The flotilla is moving through international waters, aiming to reach Gaza early next week.
- No new incidents have been reported since the drone attack.
- Italian and Spanish navy ships remain nearby for escort and rescue support.