French Doctor Alleges Mistreatment of Greta Thunberg During Gaza Aid Mission
A humanitarian journey bound for Gaza took a dramatic turn when Israeli naval forces intercepted the vessel, leading to serious allegations from a French doctor aboard. Dr. Baptiste André has publicly accused Israeli authorities of mistreating passengers, including the renowned Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Incident Overview: Aid Mission Disrupted
The boat, named Madleen, was part of a humanitarian convoy organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a group supporting Palestinian causes. Departing from Italy on June 1, the boat carried aid supplies intended for civilians in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip. However, Israeli naval forces intercepted the vessel roughly 200 kilometers off Gaza's coast.
Onboard were 12 individuals, including Thunberg. Following the interception, four passengers—among them Thunberg—were deported after signing release documents, while the remaining eight were held in Israeli custody pending a legal hearing.
Allegations of Deprivation and Ridicule
Dr. André recounted his experience after returning to France, stating that although no physical violence was observed, the Israeli authorities engaged in psychological tactics against the passengers. “They mocked us, played loud music, and danced whenever anyone tried to fall asleep,” André revealed. He also mentioned restrictions imposed on the passengers’ access to food and water.
“I don’t have the legal expertise to classify it strictly, but there were definitely acts of mistreatment,” he added, painting a picture of deliberate harassment aimed at undermining the dignity and wellbeing of those on board.
Thunberg Speaks Out: Accuses Israel of Violations
At Paris's Charles de Gaulle airport, 22-year-old Greta Thunberg described the episode as a serious breach of international norms. She accused Israel of “kidnapping us in international waters” and forcibly transporting them to Israel against their will, labeling the incident as part of “a long list of violations.”
Official Israeli Response
The Israeli government dismissed the mission outright, branding it a “publicity stunt.” Officials derided the vessel as a “selfie yacht,” asserting that it violated the naval blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip. This stance underscores Israel's strict enforcement of the blockade, citing security concerns despite international criticism.
What’s Next?
While the deported passengers have been released, eight individuals remain detained pending court proceedings. The event adds fuel to ongoing debates surrounding humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Stay tuned as developments unfold regarding this tense encounter at sea and its wider implications.
