UN demands probe into Gaza aid flotilla 'attacks'

The United Nations called on Wednesday for an investigation into alleged drone “attacks” against a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, saying anyone responsible for the “violations” should be held accountable.

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“There must be an independent, impartial and thorough investigation into the reported attacks and harassment by drones and other objects” on the Global Sumud Flotilla, which said a dozen explosions were heard around its ships late on Tuesday, UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said in a statement.

The incident has prompted Italy to send a navy ship to come to its assistance.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is using about 50 civilian boats to try and break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza, with many lawyers and activists onboard, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.

The vessels were attacked by 12 drones in international waters 30 nautical miles (56 km) off the Greek island of Gavdos, said Marikaiti Stasinou, a spokesperson for March to Gaza Greece, which is part of the flotilla.

All passengers are safe after drones exploded over the vessels, she told Reuters.