June 22, 2025
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid boat and detained climate activist Greta Thunberg and others aboard early Monday, enforcing a longstanding naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.
The boat, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aimed to deliver humanitarian supplies to the territory and protest restrictions imposed during Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas. The aid effort came amid growing international concerns over humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
The Israeli military said the vessel, the Madleen, was intercepted in accordance with established security protocols and was being redirected to the port of Ashdod. The 12 activists aboard, including Thunberg and French Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan, were expected to be repatriated. Israel's Foreign Ministry referred to the voyage as a publicity effort, stating that the aid cargo would be delivered to Gaza through existing humanitarian channels.
The military released footage of personnel providing food and water to those aboard the vessel. A spokesperson said the operation was conducted without incident.
According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the ship was seized in international waters approximately 200 kilometers from Gaza. The group described the action as an illegal boarding and claimed the humanitarian cargo, which included baby formula, food, and medical supplies, was confiscated.
Thunberg, in a pre-recorded statement released after the interception, called on the Swedish government to secure her and her colleagues' release.
Rima Hassan, a vocal critic of Israeli policy, was among six French citizens aboard. French President Emmanuel Macron called on Israel to facilitate their return to France.
Israel and Egypt have maintained a blockade of Gaza since 2007, when Hamas took control of the territory. Israel has stated the blockade is necessary to prevent arms smuggling and protect its citizens from attacks. Critics argue the restrictions have contributed to Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
In response to international appeals, Israel has allowed some aid into Gaza in recent months, though aid groups continue to warn of widespread needs among the population of over 2 million. The United Nations and other organizations have described the situation as severe, with significant displacement and infrastructure damage caused by the ongoing conflict.
The war began after Hamas-led terrorists attacked communities in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people — mostly civilians — and abducting 251 hostages. Israel’s military campaign that followed has resulted in significant casualties and displacement in Gaza. The Hamas-run Health Ministry claims there have been over 54,000 deaths, though it does not distinguish between combatants and civilians.
Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage release remain at an impasse. Hamas demands a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israeli leadership has vowed to continue operations until all hostages are returned and Hamas is dismantled.
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From Associated Press reporting.
