Julie further stated, “We carry no weapons, only supplies like baby food and medicine, and there’s no intention of violence,” reinforcing the peaceful nature of their mission.

Several vessels, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, off the coast of Tunisia. Source: AAP, EPA / Mohamed Messara

SBS News understand there are 10 Australians involved in the GSF, which describes itself as an independent group not linked to any government or political party. High-profile climate activist Greta Thunberg is part of the mission, which aims to break Israel’s naval blockade and deliver aid to Gaza, parts of which are suffering from famine, according to the United Nations-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Famine Review Committee. Israel has dismissed the findings as false and biased.

The situation is part of a larger context, involving a case at the International Court of Justice in The Hague where allegations of genocide are directed against Israel, which denies such claims, asserting its efforts against Hamas operating within Palestinian civilian areas.

Juliet Lamont’s daughter Luca (left) with climate activist Greta Thunberg. They are all part of the Global Sumud Flotilla. Credit: Supplied

Another Australian activist, Abubakir Rafiq was on board the boat that was hit in the first alleged attack.

“Participants in this journey accept the inherent risks driven by solidarity and support for the Palestinian cause, knowing that simply living in Palestinian territories involves greater danger,” he told SBS Italian.