Flotilla Aid Boat Catches Fire in Tunisia After Alleged Drone Strike - Activists Blame Israel, Officials Deny

In the coastal calm of Sidi Bou Said port, a sudden blaze erupted aboard the "Family Boat," part of the Global Sumud Flotilla's humanitarian armada preparing to sail to Gaza. Moments earlier, activists claimed, a drone hovered overhead and dropped an incendiary device that ignited the deck in a dramatic flash of light and flame.

Witnesses and visuals shared by the flotilla on social media show a glowing object descending from above, followed by smoke spiraling across the Portuguese-flagged vessel. Portuguese activist Miguel Duarte, present at the scene, recounted that the drone paused mere meters above before "dropping a bomb," triggering the blaze among life jackets on deck.

Yet, within hours, Tunisian authorities pushed back hard. The Interior Ministry declared there was "no basis in truth" to drone strike claims, suggesting the fire likely originated internally-possibly from a cigarette or lighter-and that no drone activity had been detected around the port.

All six crew members escaped unscathed, and organizers swiftly doused the flames. Despite the alarm, the flotilla reaffirmed its purpose: to challenge Israel's naval blockade and deliver crucial aid to Gaza.

Their mission includes prominent participants-ranging from climate activist Greta Thunberg to Portuguese politician Mariana Mortágua-constituting a coalition of delegates from 44 countries rallying for humanitarian access to the blockaded enclave.

The incident spurred emotional support onshore. Demonstrators waving Palestinian flags gathered at the port, chanting "Free Palestine" in a show of solidarity.

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who was present, warned that if drone involvement is confirmed, the strike would represent a violation of Tunisian sovereignty.

Israel has not commented on the incident. The flotilla remains defiant, stating that acts of intimidation will not derail its mission.