VIDEO: Spain, Italy dispatch naval vessel to back Gaza Sumud Flotilla

Spain and Italy have announced that they are sending naval ships to support a humanitarian aid flotilla bound for Gaza, following reports that the vessels were attacked yesterday by drones off the coast of Greece.

The coordinated move by the two European nations is a direct response to what organizers of the flotilla have described as a "psychological operation" intended to intimidate the mission.

According to El País newspaper, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that a "maritime action vessel equipped with all the necessary resources" will sail from the port of Cartagena on Thursday. "I want to make it clear to the government of Israel that Spain will, of course, protect its nationals, and we will do so both diplomatically and politically," Sánchez said.

The announcement came just hours after the Italian government confirmed the deployment of the frigate Fasan to assist Italian citizens on board and conduct potential rescue operations. Both countries' defense ministries are in contact to explore a broader coordinated action, which could involve other European nations as well.

The flotilla, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, is composed of about 50 civilian ships carrying humanitarian supplies. Organizers, including activists like Greta Thunberg, have reported that drones repeatedly targeted the convoy in international waters, causing explosions and damaging vessels.

The 'Israeli' military has not commented on the reports, but its Foreign Ministry issued a statement calling the flotilla a "provocation" and urging the activists to offload their aid at a nearby port for transfer to Gaza.

The move by Spain and Italy marks a significant diplomatic escalation, underscoring the growing international pressure on 'Israel' over its blockade of Gaza and its military actions against humanitarian missions.