ISTANBUL

An Israeli Heron drone was seen flying over the Gaza-bound aid ship Handala on Saturday, sparking heightened fears of a possible interception by Israeli forces, organizers said.

✈️ Israeli drone spotted over Gaza-bound aid ship Handala amid reports of Israeli threats to seize it, says International Committee to Break the Siege of Gaza pic.twitter.com/LVxQbjmRmg

— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) July 26, 2025

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition said the drone was actively circling the vessel, which was located nearly 90 nautical miles from Gaza.

“We must demand immediate action for Gaza. Pressure your governments to stop enabling genocide and let the Handala proceed safely,” the group said in a statement posted on social media.

The drone sighting comes amid growing international attention on the ship’s journey. On Friday, the coalition reported 16 drones flying above the Handala within 45 minutes, with some directly above the vessel.

Gabrielle Cathala, a French National Assembly member aboard the ship, described the situation as tense.

“Drones have begun to appear. If Wi-Fi is cut, strange things can happen. Do not worry about us. Think about the Palestinians.”

American activist Huwaida Arraf also said the crew will go on a hunger strike if Israeli forces attack or prevent them from reaching Gaza.

The Handala, which departed from Italy, is carrying baby formula, food, and medicine under international maritime and humanitarian law. It carries 21 unarmed civilians, including lawmakers, medics, and volunteers, on a mission to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza.

In recent months, Israel has intercepted multiple Gaza-bound aid ships in international waters. In June, Israeli forces seized the Madleen, detaining 12 international activists including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and French Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan. A month earlier, the MV Conscience was attacked by drones near Malta.