Handala just hours from Gaza as drones and vessel close in
The Handala aid ship is now just hours away from the Gaza coast, with tension mounting as a vessel and multiple drones approach, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
In the past 45 minutes alone, at least 19 drones have been spotted near the ship, which remains in international waters. Organizers say the escalating aerial surveillance amounts to psychological warfare.
Read more: Following Freedom Flotilla Handala on its way to Gaza
“This is psychological warfare,” said Tania Safi, one of 21 activists on board from 10 different countries. The Handala is carrying humanitarian supplies, including food, baby formula, and toys for children in Gaza.
The coalition says the Handala has gotten closer to Gaza than the Madleen, a previous aid vessel that was intercepted by “Israeli” forces last month.
Earlier Saturday, activist and actor Jacob Berger confirmed that “Israeli” drones had been shadowing the ship 90 miles from Gaza, sparking fears of interception.
Sources on board told Roya News English they remain on high alert and fear possible abduction by “Israeli” forces. “We’re expecting Israel to kidnap us at any time,” one said. “But at least we got closer than the last ship.”
Despite the risks, the crew says they are committed to reaching Gaza and delivering aid, as part of a broader effort to challenge the blockade and stand in solidarity with Palestinians.
