Greece’s Foreign Minister, Giorgos Gerapetritis, confirmed on Thursday that Athens is guaranteeing the safe passage of activist vessels currently in its waters that are part of the Global Sumud Flotilla heading toward Gaza.
Speaking to Reuters during the UN General Assembly, Gerapetritis stated that a small number of the flotilla‘s approximately 50 civilian boats were located near Crete. He emphasized that Greece’s primary concern is the safety of those on board and that Athens had already notified the Israeli government about the presence of its own citizens within the group.
Objective of Gaza flotilla currently in waters of Greece and controversy
The Global Sumud Flotilla is attempting to breach Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. The vessels are carrying numerous activists and notable figures, including the widely recognized Swedish campaigner, Greta Thunberg.
Israel has strongly condemned the flotilla’s mission, characterizing the activists as being complicit with the designated terror group, Hamas.
Alleged drone incident
The situation has been complicated by a recent, unverified claim that the flotilla was “attacked” by twelve drones in international waters, about 56 kilometers (about 35 miles) off the Greek island of Gavdos.
In response to this alleged incident, Italy dispatched a naval ship to assist the vessels. However, Gerapetritis played down the severity of the reported drone event, indicating that while Greece is currently on “full alert,” the area appears safe. He did, however, commit to a full inquiry to determine the precise circumstances of the incident.
At present, Greece is not planning to join the naval ships sent by Italy and Spain to the area.
Related: Greece “Complicit” in Israeli Attacks, Gaza Flotilla Activists Allege
