Statement by Minister Crosetto

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"With regard to the attack carried out in the last few hours on the boats of the Sumud Flotilla, which also have Italian citizens on board, using drones by perpetrators that remain unidentified, we cannot but condemn the events in the strongest manner. In a democracy, demonstrations and protests must be protected if they are consistent with international law and without resorting to violence. 
In order to provide assistance to the Italian citizens on board the 'Flotilla', at 3.50 a.m. this morning, despite being in Estonia, I have consulted with the Italian Chief of Defence and conducted a brief and summary assessment of the incident. Then I spoke with Prime Minister Meloni and authorised the immediate intervention of the multi-role frigate Fasan of the Italian Navy, which was sailing north of Crete as part of Operation Mare Sicuro. The military unit is already heading towards the area for possible rescue operations. 
The Israeli military attaché in Italy, our ambassador and military attaché in Tel Aviv, and the Crisis Unit of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been informed”, said the Minister
Guido Crosetto