Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid boat early Monday, detaining climate activist Greta Thunberg and other activists aboard. The vessel, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aimed to protest Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and the blockade restricting humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.
The coalition condemned the seizure, describing it as an unlawful boarding and the confiscation of vital supplies including baby formula, food, and medical items. Israel’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the voyage as a publicity stunt, stating the activists would be returned home and aid sent through official channels. Footage showed Israeli personnel providing food and water to the activists.
The ship, named Madleen, departed Sicily a week earlier and had rescued four migrants during its journey. Thunberg called on the Swedish government to help secure her release. Among the activists was French MEP Rima Hassan, barred from entering Israel for opposing Israeli policies.
Since Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, Israel and Egypt have enforced a blockade citing security concerns. The blockade has intensified amid the ongoing war following Hamas’s attack on southern Israel in October 2023. The conflict has resulted in over 54,000 Palestinian deaths and displaced about 90% of Gaza’s population, creating a dire humanitarian crisis dependent on international aid.
Efforts to broker a ceasefire remain stalled, with Hamas demanding a lasting truce and Israeli withdrawal in exchange for hostages, while Israel vows to continue military operations until hostages are freed and Hamas defeated.
