Greta Thunberg and Activists Detained While Delivering Aid to Gaza
Detention of Activists in Israel
In Tel Aviv, twelve individuals, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, were taken to Ben Gurion Airport for deportation after their yacht, which was carrying humanitarian supplies, was seized at the Israeli port of Ashdod.
This action followed their interception by Israeli naval forces while en route.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry announced on social media, "The passengers of the 'Selfie Yacht' have arrived at Ben Gurion Airport to leave Israel and return home."
They further stated that those who do not agree to sign deportation papers would face a judicial hearing.
The activists were part of a mission organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), aiming to deliver essential aid, including rice and baby formula, to Gaza.
The vessel, named Madleen, was reportedly intercepted approximately 185 kilometers off the Gaza coast.
A video shared by the group depicted Israeli forces boarding the yacht while the activists raised their hands, with assurances that no one was harmed during the incident.
Following the seizure, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz mentioned that the activists underwent medical checks and were shown footage of the October 7 attacks by Hamas.
Katz claimed that upon viewing the content, the activists chose not to continue watching, accusing Thunberg and her peers of ignoring the actions of Hamas and being blind to the reality.
The FFC condemned the operation, alleging that Israeli forces unlawfully boarded and attacked their vessel.
They emphasized that the mission was purely humanitarian, aimed at providing relief to Gaza, which has been under severe restrictions on aid due to Israel's blockade.
The group included individuals from various countries, including Brazil, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey.
Notable members included Rima Hassan, a French Member of the European Parliament, and Omar Faiad, a journalist from Al Jazeera.
French President Emmanuel Macron voiced strong support for the detained activists, urging Israel to expedite their release.
The French presidential office stated that Macron requested the swift return of the six French nationals.
He reaffirmed France's commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, asserting that the nation remains vigilant and supportive of its nationals in peril.
The French government also called on Israel to ensure the safety of the activists, with Macron denouncing the humanitarian blockade on Gaza as a "scandal" and a "disgrace."