JERUSALEM — Israeli forces have intercepted a humanitarian aid vessel attempting to breach the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip, detaining activists on board, including prominent Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, according to the group operating the ship.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a grassroots solidarity movement, said the vessel was seized in international waters approximately 200 kilometers from Gaza. The activists were reportedly “abducted,” and the cargo—which included food, baby formula, and medical supplies—was confiscated.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions over Israel’s blockade, which it enforces to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (Note: Correction from earlier misattribution to Katz) declared that no ships would be permitted to breach the restrictions.
“I have instructed the Israel Defense Forces to prevent this flotilla from reaching Gaza,” Gallant posted on X. “To the activists, including those spreading Hamas propaganda, I say: Turn back. You will not succeed.”
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the interception, accusing Israel of violating international law. “Israel is once again acting with total impunity,” the group stated.
The ship, named Madleen, had departed from Sicily on June 1 with the intent of delivering aid to Gaza, where the UN warns of a worsening humanitarian crisis. This marks the latest in a series of attempts by activists to challenge the blockade—last month, a similar vessel was allegedly disabled by a drone strike.
The interception has drawn renewed scrutiny of Israel’s wartime policies, particularly from European allies. Germany, France, and the UK have grown increasingly critical of Israel’s conduct in Gaza, where over 54,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed since the war began on October 7, 2023, following Hamas’ attack that left 1,200 Israelis dead and 250 taken hostage.
Some European nations are now considering trade sanctions and arms sale restrictions to pressure Israel into ending the conflict, which has devastated Gaza and triggered what aid agencies call a “man-made famine.”
Israel has severely restricted aid shipments into Gaza since March, accusing Hamas of diverting supplies to fund its operations. However, under international pressure, limited deliveries have resumed.
Meanwhile, the U.S. and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation recently began operations, distributing aid independently of Hamas. The group claims to have provided enough supplies for 10 million meals, though access remains inconsistent.
The detained activists, including Thunberg, are expected to be deported. The incident is likely to fuel further protests and diplomatic tensions as calls grow for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian access to Gaza.
