Ankara: Six Turkish citizens who were aboard a Gaza-bound humanitarian aid ship that reportedly came under drone attack in international waters off Malta have returned to Trkiye over the weekend.
According to Anadolu Agency,the Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed on Monday that all six individuals are in good health.
Efforts are underway in collaboration with Maltese authorities to ensure the safe transfer of other Turkish citizens who were on board the ship, reported the ministry sources. The vessel, named Conscience and operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, caught fire after reportedly being struck by drones early Friday while it was transporting humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Maltese government has confirmed that the fire was contained with the assistance of a nearby tugboat, and all 12 crew members and four civilians on board were reported safe, despite their refusal to evacuate the ship.
Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keceli condemned the attack, stating that it poses a threat to freedom of navigation and maritime security in international waters. Keceli noted allegations that the ship was targeted by Israeli unmanned aerial vehicles and assured that all necessary efforts will be made to uncover the attack's details and hold those responsible accountable.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has accused Israel of being behind the attack and has called for Israeli ambassadors to be summoned over what it describes as violations of international law, including the blockade and bombing of a civilian ship.
The UN Human Rights Office has called for an independent investigation into the incident and reiterated its demand for Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza, describing it as "collective punishment." Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur for the Palestinian Territories, expressed shock over the lack of denunciation from political leaders regarding the attack on a civilian vessel carrying aid to a needy population. She urged EU leaders to condemn the act and demand an urgent investigation and access to the ship, which remains stranded in international waters.