ACTIVISTS on board a flotilla attempting to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza said today that several of their boats were attacked overnight by drones while sailing south of Greece.

It came as Israeli bombardment killed at least 30 people in the early hours of today, with death counts rising to more than 84 as attacks continued throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the United Nations accused the Israeli military of “inflicting terror on the Palestinian population of Gaza City and forcing tens of thousands to flee.”

The Global Sumud Flotilla reported “unidentified drones and communications jamming” during the night, saying that “at least 13 explosions” were heard on and around vessels, while drones or aircraft dropped “unidentified objects” on at least 10 boats. 

No injuries were reported, but the group said there was damage to some vessels and “widespread obstruction in communications.” 

Activists also posted a short video on social media, appearing to show an explosion close to one of the boats.

There was no immediate response from the Israeli military.

The flotilla has previously reported several attacks since it departed Spain on September 1, including two incidents in Tunisian waters. 

Organisers say it is the largest attempt so far to challenge Israel’s 18-year maritime blockade of Gaza.

UN Human Rights Office spokesman Thameen al-Kheetan called for “an independent, impartial and thorough investigation into the reported attacks and harassment by drones and other objects” on the flotilla, saying those responsible must face accountability.

Rima Hassan, a Franco-Palestinian MEP, is on board the flotilla. 

The head of the Left in Europe bloc in the European Parliament demanded immediate EU and French action to ensure the safety of the convoy. 

In Britain, Stop the War Coalition convener Lindsey German called the “acts of high sea piracy deeply vicious and vindictive.”

“It is clear that this and Israel’s threats of further action to prevent the flotilla reaching its destination safely are aimed at testing global reaction,” she said.

“The news that Italy is to send a navy ship to assist the flotilla is therefore welcome and should be followed by all seagoing nations.”

Italian citizens, including MPs and MEPs are participating in the flotilla.

Italy’s Foreign Ministry said that it had “notified the Israeli authorities that any operation entrusted to Israel’s armed forces be conducted in compliance with international law and the principle of absolute caution.”

The flotilla consists of dozens of boats from several countries, carrying a symbolic cargo of food and medicine for Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel has accused organisers of links to Hamas and says it has offered to accept the aid at one of its ports.