Israel Intercepts Aid Boat, Detains Activists Including **Greta Thunberg**

Climate Advocate and Others Attempted to Breach Gaza Blockade

Israeli forces have seized a vessel carrying humanitarian aid and a group of activists—among them prominent climate campaigner **Greta Thunberg**—attempting to reach Gaza. The interception underscores the ongoing restrictions on access to the Palestinian territory, which is facing a deepening humanitarian crisis amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Confrontation in International Waters

The activists, aboard the ship Madleen, set out to challenge Israel’s longstanding blockade of Gaza and deliver essential supplies. According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the voyage, the ship was boarded by Israeli forces approximately 200 kilometers (120 miles) from Gaza while operating in international waters. The coalition alleges that the activists were “kidnapped” and their cargo—including baby formula, food, and medical supplies—was confiscated.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the mission as a publicity stunt, referring to the vessel as a “selfie yacht” and stating that the activists would be returned to their home countries. They also asserted that the aid would be delivered to Gaza through established channels. According to the UN, approximately 80% of Gaza’s population is now reliant on humanitarian assistance. UN OCHA (June 2024)

Activist Detentions and Reactions

Israeli military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel **Nadav Shoshani** confirmed that the ship was en route to the port of Ashdod on Monday. Following docking, the activists are expected to be held at a detention facility in Ramle before deportation, according to the legal rights group Adalah. **Rima Hassan**, a French member of the European Parliament of Palestinian descent, was also on board and has previously been barred from entering Israel due to her views on Israeli policies.

French President **Emmanuel Macron**’s office released a statement requesting Israel allow the six French citizens on board to return home promptly. **Thunberg** herself issued a pre-recorded message, urging friends, family, and the Swedish government to secure their release.

This incident follows a previous attempt by the Freedom Flotilla last month, which was disrupted by an alleged drone attack in international waters off Malta. Organizers blamed Israel for the damage to that vessel.