Fears rise as drones follow the Handala aid ship to Gaza
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The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reports increased drone activity above the Handala aid ship, raising concerns over potential Israeli or NATO intervention as the vessel travels to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
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Voice message from Gabrielle Cathala, French member of parliament, speaking from abroad the Handala (screenshot from video posted by the Gaza Freedom Flotilla on Instagram)
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported late Friday that multiple drones were observed flying above the Handala aid ship, which is en route to the Gaza Strip. The development has raised renewed concerns about a possible Israeli or NATO interception of the humanitarian mission.
According to a statement issued on Telegram, the coalition noted that within a 45-minute window, 16 drones were spotted above the Handala, some in pairs and others flying directly over the vessel. This increased surveillance has intensified fears of a potential intervention.
French National Assembly member Gabrielle Cathala, one of 21 international activists aboard the ship, shared a voice message titled "Day 6," cautioning that a raid could occur in the coming hours or by morning.
"We are united, in full solidarity, and prepared. Drones have begun to appear. If Wi-Fi is cut, strange things can happen. Do not worry about us. Think about the Palestinians. They are suffering. The genocide they are enduring is far worse than any risk we face here," she said.
Day 6: Gabrielle Cathala, on the 'Handala'. French Parliamentarian Gabrielle reports on the recent drones sightings. pic.twitter.com/xSjrTSNj0v
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) July 25, 2025
Previous Communication Blackout Sparks Alarm
Two days ago, the coalition reported a two-hour loss of communication with the Handala, during which several drones were observed circling the ship. Although contact was later restored, the group cited the drone activity as a cause for concern.
A previous statement read: "All contact with our crew on Handala was lost, and several drones were spotted nearby. This could mean they have been intercepted or attacked."
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The Handala departed the Italian port of Syracuse on July 13 and conducted final preparations at Gallipoli from July 15 to 20. It resumed its course on July 20, carrying baby formula, food, and medicine.
All 21 individuals aboard the vessel are unarmed civilians operating under international maritime and humanitarian law. The journey is part of a broader international civil society effort to challenge the "Israeli" blockade and deliver essential aid to Gaza.
The Handala aid ship remains on its course to the Gaza Strip, continuing its humanitarian mission to Gaza despite increasing risks.
