Greta Thunberg's Gaza Aid Boat Diverted to Israel Amid Controversy
Aid Boat Incident Involving Greta Thunberg
An aid vessel bound for Gaza, carrying Greta Thunberg and fellow activists, was redirected to Israeli territory, as reported by the Israeli foreign ministry on Monday.
The ministry indicated that the individuals aboard are anticipated to return to their respective countries.
The ship, named Madleen, was part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which advocates against the blockade of Gaza, according to reports from a major news outlet.
Earlier, the coalition alleged that the activists had been 'kidnapped' by Israeli forces and shared videos featuring pre-recorded messages from them.
The Israeli foreign ministry released a video on Monday claiming to show the passengers of the ship as 'safe and unharmed.'
Additionally, they stated that the humanitarian supplies on board would be delivered to Gaza through appropriate humanitarian channels.
On Sunday, Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced via social media that he had ordered the Israel Defense Forces to take necessary actions to prevent the 'Madeleine' flotilla from reaching Gaza.
All the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition accused Israel of 'forcibly intercepting' the Madleen.
They claimed that the ship was unlawfully boarded, with its unarmed crew taken and essential supplies, including baby formula and medical items, seized.
Huwaida Arraf, a human rights lawyer and organizer for the Freedom Flotilla, stated that this action is a clear violation of international law and disregards the International Court of Justice's orders for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.
SOS! the volunteers on 'Madleen' have been kidnapped by Israeli forces.
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 9, 2025
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish citizen.
Pressure their foreign ministries and help us keep them safe!
Web: https://t.co/uCGmx8sn8j
X : @SweMFA
FB : @SweMFA
IG : swedishmfa#AllEyesOnMadeleen pic.twitter.com/76Myrg2Bnz
Following a blockade lasting two and a half months aimed at pressuring Hamas, Israel began permitting basic aid into Gaza in May. Humanitarian workers have raised alarms about potential famine unless the blockade is lifted and military actions cease, according to reports.
Last month, an attempt by the Freedom Flotilla to reach Gaza was thwarted when another vessel was attacked by drones while in international waters, with the group attributing the incident to Israel.
Israel's naval blockade of Gaza has persisted through various conflicts, including the ongoing situation.
The military offensive against Gaza initiated in October 2023 followed a deadly incursion by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and numerous hostages taken. Since then, Israel has conducted extensive air and ground strikes, leading to over 62,600 fatalities, including nearly 17,500 children.
Efforts to restore a ceasefire that was established in January have stalled due to significant disagreements between Hamas and Israel.