Greece will ensure the safe passage of boats that are in its waters and are participating in the international flotilla headed to Gaza. This was stated by Greek Foreign Minister Georgios Gerapetritis in an interview with „Reuters“ during the UN forum in New York.
The Global Sumud flotilla, which includes about 50 civilian vessels with activists on board, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, aims to break the Israeli naval blockade of the enclave.
„Currently, a small number of boats are in Cretan waters and we will ensure their safe passage. We have already informed the Israeli government for the participation of Greek citizens and we will make sure that everything goes smoothly,” Gerapetritis said.
Israel has repeatedly criticized the initiative, accusing the activists of collaborating with the Hamas group.
On Wednesday, Italy sent a naval ship to help the flotilla after the vessels were attacked by 12 drones in international waters 30 nautical miles (56 km) off the island of Gavdos. Spain has also deployed a warship, but Athens has no plans to join them for now.
The Greek foreign minister played down the significance of the drone incident but assured that a full investigation would be conducted. “For now, the situation appears to be safe, but we remain on full alert,” he stressed.