The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, an international NGO that intends to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza by sea, has said it is in talks with Malta’s government about allowing an aid-carrying vessel to enter Maltese waters to repair damage caused by a recent drone attack, Al Jazeera reports.

The vessel, the Conscience, suffered damage to its front section, including a loss of power, when it was hit by two drones just outside Maltese territorial waters on Friday, the NGO that organised the mission said.

The boat had been waiting to take on board some 30 peace activists from around the world before trying to sail to Gaza to deliver food and medicines. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has blamed Israel for the incident.

Prime Minister Robert Abela said earlier today that Malta was prepared to assist the ship with necessary repairs, but only after an inspection to see if it holds just humanitarian aid.

NGO officials said the surveyor was welcome to board as part of the deal being negotiated with Malta.