Swedish Activist Greta Thunberg and Volunteers Detained at Sea
On Monday evening, Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg along with 11 international volunteers were detained after the aid vessel Madleen was intercepted by Israeli naval forces and redirected to the port of Ashdod. The ship had been en route to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza but was stopped in international waters, according to organizers.
Details of the Interception and Aftermath
The detained group underwent medical checks upon arrival, with Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirming their detention. Israel's Defense Minister emphasized that the activists were shown footage documenting the deadly Hamas-led attacks of October 7 but reportedly refused to watch the full material. He accused them of disregarding the atrocities committed.
The Madleen was organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), a group challenging the blockade imposed on Gaza. The ship was carrying essential supplies, including baby formula, food, and medical items intended for civilians impacted by the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
According to FFC reports, Israeli forces employed quadcopters to spray the ship's deck with a white, paint-like substance, jammed communication signals, and emitted disruptive sounds. One activist reported eye irritation caused by the substance during a live broadcast.
Thunberg Calls the Seizure 'Kidnapping'
In a prerecorded message shared by the FFC, Thunberg described the incident as the ship being "kidnapped in international waters by Israeli occupation forces." Israeli officials, however, stated that the aid would be rerouted to Gaza through official humanitarian channels.
Legal and International Reactions
FFC organizer and legal representative Huwaida Arraf condemned the interception as a violation of international law, referencing a binding International Court of Justice ruling demanding unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.
Amnesty International's Secretary General expressed concern, labeling the nighttime operation in international waters as both dangerous and unlawful.
Global Responses and Protests
- U.S. President issued mixed remarks, sarcastically suggesting Thunberg attend anger management classes, yet lamented that "Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg."
- Hamas called the seizure a "flagrant violation of international law" and demanded the immediate release of all activists.
- France confirmed six detainees were French citizens, with President Emmanuel Macron calling for their speedy return and urging Israel to permit large-scale humanitarian aid into Gaza.
- In Ashdod, around 15 protesters gathered with signs bearing messages such as “Resist genocide” and “Stop state terror.”
Voyage and Risks Acknowledged
The Madleen departed Sicily last week and notably rescued four migrants near Libya during its journey. The FFC acknowledged the inherent risks, noting previous flotillas have been blocked or attacked by Israeli forces. In April, another vessel reportedly came under drone attack near Malta, though Israel did not confirm involvement.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Despite international pressure, humanitarian aid to Gaza remains severely limited. A recent UN-backed report warned that one in five people in Gaza faces starvation. The seized shipment included critical baby formula and medical supplies deemed vital for the civilian population.
Israel maintains a stringent blockade on Gaza, especially during wartime, prohibiting unauthorized sea access to the territory. Authorities assert that aid shipments must follow official channels.
