Tel aviv: An Israeli Heron drone was seen flying over the Gaza-bound aid ship Handala on Saturday, sparking heightened fears of a possible interception by Israeli forces, organizers said. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that the drone was actively circling the vessel, which was located nearly 90 nautical miles from Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, the drone sighting has intensified the already growing international attention on the ship's journey. On Friday, the coalition noted that 16 drones were observed flying above the Handala within a span of just 45 minutes, with some directly above the vessel.

Gabrielle Cathala, a French National Assembly member aboard the ship, described the situation as tense, stating, "Drones have begun to appear. If Wi-Fi is cut, strange things can happen. Do not worry about us. Think about the Palestinians." American activist Huwaida Arraf also mentioned that the crew will resort to a hunger strike if Israeli forces attack or prevent them from reaching Gaza.

The Handala, which departed from Italy, is carrying baby formula, food, and medicine under international maritime and humanitarian law. The ship carries 21 unarmed civilians, including lawmakers, medics, and volunteers, on a mission to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza.

In recent months, Israel has intercepted multiple Gaza-bound aid ships in international waters. In June, Israeli forces seized the Madleen, detaining 12 international activists, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and French Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan. A month earlier, the MV Conscience was attacked by drones near Malta.