Rescue at Sea: Aid Flotilla Safe After Drone Incident

A Maltese government statement confirmed the safety of all aboard an aid flotilla struck by drones near Malta. The vessel, carrying 12 crew and four passengers, suffered no casualties. A nearby tug and the Armed Forces of Malta responded quickly, bringing the situation under control.

An aid flotilla headed for Gaza was hit by drones in international waters near Malta, but all aboard were reported safe, according to a Maltese government statement released on Friday. The incident involved 12 crew members and four civilian passengers, with no casualties reported.

A tug was dispatched and firefighting commenced by 1:28 a.m. (2328 GMT Thursday), with the fire under control shortly thereafter. The Armed Forces of Malta also sent a patrol vessel for additional support, ensuring the safety of the crew and passengers.

Despite initial concerns, authorities confirmed that all individuals were secure by 2:13 a.m. However, they refused to leave the vessel for the tug, and the flotilla remained under close watch outside territorial waters.

(With inputs from agencies.)