The Madleen, a humanitarian aid ship sailing toward Gaza as part of a flotilla to break the blockade, issued a distress call Tuesday night after spotting a drone overhead.
The drone was later confirmed as a Greek Coast Guard Heron. Greek authorities said the distress alert was unnecessary.
The ship, carrying baby formula, hygiene items, and medical supplies for Gaza civilians, departed Sicily on Sunday.
#FreedomFlotilla #BreakTheSiege #AllEyesOnDeck pic.twitter.com/n5yHQ2xdOj
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 3, 2025
Among the activists on board are Greta Thunberg and actor Liam Cunningham, who appealed for international protection.
This is the coalition’s second attempt at reaching Gaza after a May voyage failed near Malta. Israeli forces are monitoring the flotilla, with Israeli Defence Force spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin saying, “We will act accordingly.”
Organisers say the mission is peaceful and aims to challenge the Gaza blockade, which critics claim restricts vital civilian aid.
