It has been a tense and emotional few hours here in Tunisia.
Just before dawn, the Global Sumud Flotilla, the international effort determined to sail towards Gaza in solidarity, was dealt a heavy blow.
We were woken up with news that one of the main vessels, known as the Family Boat, was struck by a drone while anchored in Tunisian waters.
We rushed down to the port and quickly realised that this was not an accident.
Eyewitnesses told us that a drone appeared overhead in the quiet of the night while some members of the flotilla were keeping watch as others slept.
The alarm was sounded the moment the drone was heard, but only seconds later it struck.
The Family Boat is one of the flotilla’s leading vessels and was due to set sail from Tunis this week.
Due on board were members of the Global Sumud Steering Committee, including prominent figures such as Gretha and Yesmin.
The vessel, which sails under the Portuguese flag, carried six passengers and crew at the time.
While all of them are safe, fire damage, however, was caused to the main deck and to the below deck storage.
It appears that the damage is significant and is expected to delay the departure of the mission.
We understand that an investigation is currently underway, and further details will be released as they become available.
News of the attack spread quickly through Tunis and when we got to the scene, we found police and local residents who rushed to the port to offer assistance.
There was an overwhelming sense of solidarity, ensuring that those on board knew they were not alone.
Their quick response reflected a shared determination to protect the flotilla and to keep the mission alive.
Despite the severity of the incident, the leadership of the Global Sumud Flotilla has made it clear that acts of aggression intended to intimidate and derail their mission will not deter them.
Their peaceful journey to break the siege on Gaza and to stand in solidarity with its people continues with determination and resolve.
As we continue to report from Tunisia, it is impossible not to feel the weight of this moment.
On one side there are attempts to silence, intimidate, and obstruct.
On the other there is unflinching resolve, expressed not only by the flotilla itself but also by the communities rallying behind it.
We will keep you updated as this story unfolds.
