• The humanitarian ship "Conscience" was attacked by drones while en route to Gaza.
• Malta's government has offered repairs contingent on an inspection of the ship's cargo.
• Activists claim Israel is responsible for the drone strikes; the Israeli government has not responded.
• The ship has been in international waters since the attack, awaiting permission to dock.
• Eyewitnesses report significant damages, including fire and minor injuries to crew members.

On early Friday, the humanitarian ship Conscience, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was reportedly attacked by two drones just outside Maltese territorial waters, resulting in a loss of power and damage to its front section. The ship has been anchored in international waters since the incident, awaiting permission to dock for necessary repairs, according to a spokesperson from the coalition. Eyewitness accounts have described the incident, including a powerful explosion followed by a fire that lasted several hours, as a concerted attack on their mission to deliver aid to Gaza, according to ABC News and Reuters.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has accused the Israeli military of conducting the drone strikes, a claim that aligns with reports from multiple sources mentioning an Israeli military aircraft operating in the area before the attack. This has prompted demands for an investigation and accountability from Malta’s government, which has publicly supported Palestinian causes in the past, yet has not confirmed responsibility for the strike, according to Reuters, India Times, and Al Jazeera.

Prime Minister Robert Abela of Malta indicated that the government is willing to assist in repairs but emphasized that the Conscience must first allow a maritime surveyor onboard to inspect the vessel and verify its humanitarian cargo. The FFC has expressed willingness to cooperate but criticized what they see as delays in Malta's response and assistance, especially given the reported injuries among the crew, which includes cuts and burns from the attack, according to statements from coalition officials and reports from Reuters and Anadolu Agency.

The coalition stated that volunteers from multiple countries have been onboard the Conscience, aimed at raising awareness and rallying support for humanitarian access to Gaza. They fear that further delays could jeopardize their mission, as the ship's physical state deteriorates, highlighting the urgent need for repairs and safe passage towards Gaza. Eyewitness testimonial reflects concerns of an operational failure potentially orchestrated by external threats, alongside evidence collection for international legal proceedings, as detailed by India Times and Al Jazeera.