Tunisian authorities suggest cigarette caused Gaza flotilla fire

Organizers of a Gaza solidarity flotilla claimed on Monday night that one of their vessels was hit by a drone while anchored near Tunisia, though local authorities firmly dismissed the allegation.

The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), carrying aid and activists intent on challenging 'Israel’s' blockade of Gaza, had docked off the coast of Sidi Bou Said over the weekend.

In a statement shared on social media, the group said, “The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) confirms that one of the main boats... was struck by what is suspected to be a drone.” They added that no injuries occurred.

Security footage released by the organizers captured a distinct buzzing noise moments before a burst of light illuminated the deck. Shortly after, a fire broke out on board but was quickly contained. An Agence France-Presse (AFP) correspondent who arrived soon after confirmed the flames had been extinguished.

The cause of the blaze remains contested. Tunisian national guard spokesman Houcem Eddine Jebabli told AFP that, “According to preliminary findings, a fire broke out in the life jackets on board,” and insisted that “no drones have been detected.”

The national guard later issued a statement rejecting reports of an aerial attack, suggesting instead that a cigarette could have sparked the fire.

Despite Tunisian denials, members of the flotilla remain convinced otherwise. Brazilian activist Thiago Avila posted a video on Instagram featuring testimony from a fellow participant who insisted, “It was 100 percent a drone that dropped a bomb.”

The Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) have not issued a comment on the claims.

Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian territories, also drew attention to the incident by sharing the footage online. “Draw your conclusions,” she wrote on X, pointing to the sound of an explosion and shouts for help from the crew.

The Global Sumud Flotilla identifies itself as independent of governments and political parties, with its name referencing the Arabic word “sumud,” meaning resilience. Among the participants is Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who spoke at a pro-Palestinian rally in Tunisia on Sunday.

This is not the first time such an initiative has faced obstacles. 'Israel' previously intercepted two activist-led flotillas attempting to reach Gaza in June and July.