Greece will ensure the safe passage of vessels currently sailing in its territorial waters near Crete and taking part in the international Gaza flotilla, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis said on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, according to Reuters.

The mission, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, involves around 50 civilian boats attempting to break the Israeli naval blockade of Gaza. Among the participants are lawyers and activists, including Swedish environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg.

“A small number of vessels are currently in the waters near Crete, and we will guarantee their safe navigation,” Gerapetritis stated. He added that Athens has already informed the Israeli government about the presence of Greek citizens on board, stressing: “We will ensure everything proceeds smoothly.”

Israel has repeatedly condemned the flotilla, accusing the activists of “collusion” with Hamas.

Drone incident and Italy’s response

The statement came after the flotilla was attacked by 12 drones in international waters, about 30 nautical miles south of Gavdos island. In response, Italy dispatched a naval ship to support the Gaza flotilla. Spain has also indicated its involvement.

Gerapetritis, however, clarified that Greece does not intend to follow Italy and Spain in sending naval forces at this stage. He played down the drone incident while underlining that a full investigation will take place.

“At present there appears to be security, but we remain on full alert,” he noted.