Climate activist Greta Thunberg is set to join a humanitarian mission to Gaza this Sunday, sailing aboard a Freedom Flotilla ship organized to protest Israel's blockade on the territory.
The Freedom Flotilla is a coalition of groups opposing the restrictions on humanitarian aid into Gaza, which Israel imposed on March 2 and has only recently begun to ease. The blockade has severely impacted the region, drawing international criticism.
Rima Hassan, a French-Palestinian Member of the European Parliament and participant in the voyage, stated that the mission aims to condemn the ongoing humanitarian blockade and alleged acts of genocide, highlight Israel's perceived impunity, and raise global awareness. Hassan, known for her outspoken views within France's left-wing party LFI, was previously denied entry into Israel when planning a parliamentary visit to the occupied Palestinian territories in February.
Originally, Thunberg was scheduled to join a Freedom Flotilla ship earlier this month; however, the vessel sustained damage during its journey, suspected to be caused by an Israeli drone strike, forcing a delay.
The activists have called for widespread public support to ensure the mission's safety and success. While aid shipments have recently resumed, humanitarian organizations warn that Gaza remains on the brink of mass starvation due to the prolonged conflict and blockade.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue as the White House announced that Israel approved a ceasefire proposal put forward by US President Donald Trump. However, Palestinian militant group Hamas rejected the proposal, complicating the peace process.
