Israel Intercepts Gaza-Bound Ship Carrying Activists, Including **Greta Thunberg**
Protest Voyage Aimed to Break Naval Blockade Faces Israeli Opposition
A ship carrying pro-Palestinian activists and a small amount of aid was diverted from its course to Gaza by Israeli forces early Monday, sparking condemnation from organizers and raising fresh questions about the humanitarian situation in the besieged enclave. The incident involved prominent figures like **Greta Thunberg** and a member of the European Parliament.
Ship Diverted, Passengers Detained
The Israeli Foreign Ministry announced the interception of the vessel, named the Madleen, stating it was being directed toward Israeli shores and its passengers would be returned to their home countries. Israel had previously declared its intention to prevent the ship from reaching Gaza, vowing to use “any means necessary” to enforce its naval blockade.
The ‘selfie yacht’ of the ‘celebrities’ is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. 🇮🇱
These activists, including @GretaThunberg and others, attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity. pic.twitter.com/9wJ9wJ9w9w
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 10, 2024
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the voyage, reported losing contact with the Madleen after alarms sounded and drones were observed overhead. The group accused the Israeli military of “kidnapping” the activists. Surveillance footage from the ship shows individuals in life vests as another vessel approaches and people board the Madleen.
Gaza Blockade and Humanitarian Crisis
Israel, with Egypt’s cooperation, imposed a blockade on Gaza after Hamas took control of the territory in 2007, citing security concerns and the need to prevent weapons smuggling. However, the blockade has severely restricted the movement of people and goods, contributing to a worsening humanitarian crisis, particularly during the ongoing conflict.
According to the United Nations, approximately 80% of Gaza’s population—over 2 million people—relies on humanitarian assistance. UN OCHA data shows a significant increase in food insecurity and limited access to essential services since October 2023.
Limited Aid and Israeli Response
The Madleen carried a symbolic amount of aid—described by the Israeli Foreign Ministry as “tiny,” amounting to less than a single truckload—including baby formula, flour, and medical supplies. Israel’s Defense Minister, **Israel Katz**, warned **Greta Thunberg** and others against attempting to breach the blockade, labeling them “propagandists for Hamas.”
“We are doing this because, no matter what odds we are against, we have to keep trying,” **Greta Thunberg** said last week. “Because the moment we stop trying is when we lose our humanity. And no matter how dangerous this mission is, it’s not even near as dangerous as the silence of the entire world in the face of the live-streamed genocide.”
—Greta Thunberg, Activist
Past Confrontations and Recent Attempts
This incident echoes past confrontations, notably the 2010 Israeli commando raid on the Mavi Marmara, which resulted in the deaths of nine activists and strained relations with Turkey. More recently, another Freedom Flotilla Coalition vessel, the Conscience, was damaged by explosions off the coast of Malta in April, forcing the abandonment of its mission.
Israel has recently introduced a new aid delivery system, operated by American security contractors, but it has been criticized by aid organizations and the UN for potential misuse and restrictions on access. Recent reports detail incidents of Israeli forces firing on Palestinians attempting to collect aid, resulting in casualties.
